[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 24 (Wednesday, March 1, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E240-E241]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 28, 2006

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I am proud today to join Chairman Mel Watt 
and the entire Congressional Black Caucus in recognizing the importance 
of Black History Month. While Black History Month always provides us 
with an important opportunity to reflect on the vital accomplishments 
and contributions of African Americans, it has taken on a special 
meaning this year with the recent passing of both Rosa Parks and 
Coretta Scott King.
  Although they have passed on, Mrs. King and Mrs. Parks continue to 
inspire us to work towards the noble goal of equality for all. These 
two women were among a group of brave pioneers who led one of the 
greatest movements of our time--the Civil Rights Movement. I have great 
respect for all those who risked beatings and arrests, and were even 
willing to make the ultimate sacrifice--their lives--to stand up for a 
cause that is right and just.

[[Page E241]]

  My close friend and colleague, Representative John Lewis, stands 
among us as a giant of the Civil Rights Movement. During the legendary 
march that Representative Lewis led to Selma, Alabama, more than 40 
years ago, countless peaceful, law-abiding Americans were beaten and 
arrested. This day came to be called ``Bloody Sunday,'' and it helped 
spur a nation to action to fight against the evils of discrimination 
and racism.
  Mr. Speaker, I have had the great honor and privilege to accompany 
Representative Lewis and other civil rights leaders to Selma several 
times to commemorate the events of that fateful day by marching across 
the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Each time, we are reminded of the impact that 
one single day can have on the course of history, and we celebrate 
those with the courage and determination to face down the worst so that 
all Americans might enjoy the freedom and equality that this nation 
stands for.
  These pilgrimages to Selma vividly illustrate for us how far we have 
come in the quest for civil rights for all, yet also serve as a 
reminder that we must never be complacent in thinking that the battle 
is won.
  The plight of those who are denied civil rights is a struggle that is 
far from over, and we must remain ever mindful of those whose rights 
are in danger of being denied. In the coming year, several provisions 
of the Voting Rights Act are scheduled for reauthorization. It is our 
duty to ensure that the march toward civil rights for all continues 
forward, rather than stalling or going backward.
  The VRA is crucial in guaranteeing that the rights of all Americans 
remain protected, and, as such, should command broad, bipartisan 
support. It is a fitting tribute to Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King, and 
to all those who have participated in the Civil Rights Movement in ways 
large and small, to renew the very Act that codified their long 
struggle for enfranchisement into law.
  Our nation is deeply indebted to these men and women of courage and 
integrity. Their legacy will live on for generations.

                          ____________________