[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 28, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E225]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




TRIBUTE TO THE WEST HAVEN BLACK COALITION AS THEY CELEBRATE THEIR 20TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 28, 2006

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, in so many communities across this nation, 
civic organizations have been founded in an effort to advance the local 
African-American community. For the last twenty years, the City of West 
Haven, Connecticut has been home to the West Haven Black Coalition--an 
organization that has not only helped to promote African-American 
involvement in the community, but has also worked diligently to improve 
the community and quality of life for all West Haven residents.
  We begin each year celebrating the life and lessons of the Reverend 
Dr. Martin Luther King followed by the celebration of Black History 
Month. It could not be more fitting that the West Haven Black 
Coalition's anniversary coincides with these festivities. In the last 
two decades, under the leadership of founder and president Carroll 
Brown, the West Haven Black Coalition has gone a long way in bringing 
life to the legacy of Dr. King and addressing social, political, and 
economic issues through active participation in the government and 
community. Dr. King once said, ``Life's most persistent and urgent 
question is what are you going to do for others.'' Dr. King devoted his 
life--indeed gave his life--to working for others. Despite our best 
intentions, it is not always easy to find the time for community 
service. With so much going on in our daily lives it can be a challenge 
which is why I have a deep admiration for those among us who take the 
time to give something back and to share our talents with others. For 
20 years, the West Haven Black Coalition has done just that.
  It was not so long ago that minorities faced seemingly overwhelming 
obstacles to justice and equality. While our nation has taken great 
strides, there is still work to be done--this has become the mission of 
the West Haven Black Coalition. Actively encouraging African-Americans 
to not only run for public office but serve in city government, 
developing and implementing community enrichment projects throughout 
the city, and making opportunity real for our students by providing 
college scholarships--these are just some of the ways that the West 
Haven Black Coalition has made a difference.
  Perhaps more important than the physical impact the West Haven Black 
Coalition has had on our community is the inspiring message that their 
good work has passed on to a new generation. Your participation, your 
service--in school, in government, or in the community--gives you a 
strong voice and empowers you to make a difference. In its first 20 
years, the West Haven Black Coalition has left an indelible mark on our 
community and I have no doubt that they will continue to have a 
positive impact on the city for many years to come. That is why I am 
pleased to stand today to join the many who have gathered to extend my 
sincere thanks and appreciation to Carroll Brown and the West Haven 
Black Coalition for their invaluable contributions. My sincere and 
heart-felt congratulations as they celebrate this very special 
milestone.

                          ____________________