[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 22 (Tuesday, February 6, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E269]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 6, 2007

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with a great sense of honor that 
I rise to celebrate Black History Month and its 2007 theme--From 
Slavery to Freedom: Africans in the Americas. As we recall the many 
struggles and reflect on the immense impact African-Americans have had 
on this country, we are reminded that, though we have made great 
strides, we must continue the fight for a society that is truly equal.
  The theme for this year's Black History Month, From Slavery to 
Freedom: Africans in the Americas, is a reminder that in striving for 
equality, we must examine the past. We remember those brought to 
America against their will, forced into slavery, working under the most 
inhumane conditions. From this, however, we are reminded of those who 
recognized this atrocity and made the decision to fight for their 
freedom. We pay special tribute to those who were persecuted, and in 
many cases murdered, for their impassioned struggle for what was right. 
From the earliest men and women forced into slavery to the brave 
soldiers, both free and enslaved, who joined forces to eventually 
defeat the Confederacy, thus establishing their own freedom, all are to 
be commended with the highest admiration and praise. Without these 
struggles, President Abraham Lincoln's reminder of our founding 
fathers' goal, the establishment of a new Nation, conceived in liberty, 
and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal, would 
not be possible.
  It is the efforts of these brave individuals that would inspire the 
great leaders of the civil rights movement, like Dr. Martin Luther 
King, Jr., and Rosa Parks, to persevere and make great strides toward 
this goal. Some of these leaders, like many before them, would face 
similar persecution. Some, like Dr. King, would pay the ultimate price 
in hopes that one day all Americans would be seen as equals. We are 
aware, however, that as a united society, we must continue to make 
strides like those generations who came before us. From the days of 
slavery to the days of segregation, we must continue to work toward a 
society that is truly equal, a society with equal rights, equal 
justice, and equal opportunities.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me 
in honoring the brave men and women who have led us in the ongoing 
fight for justice and equality. Let us take this opportunity to honor 
the sacrifices and contributions of all Americans who have fought for 
their freedom and the freedom of others. This commitment to equality, 
opportunity, and an end to discrimination is to be admired.

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