[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 123 (Monday, July 30, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1650]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP 
                               CONFERENCE

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                     HON. C.A. DUTCH RUPPERSBERGER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 30, 2007

  Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise with my colleagues in 
recognizing the founding of the Southern Christian Leadership 
Conference's 50th anniversary. I commend Congressman Rush in reserving 
this time to pay homage to this great American institution.
  When this organization held its first annual convention in 
Montgomery, AL, five decades ago this August, I was just a young boy 
understanding the strategy of the nonviolent approach to hate, 
segregation, and inequality that was and still is prevalent today in 
America's society.
  As a former prosecutor and County Executive, I have worked very hard 
to ensure the organization's commitment to nonviolent action to achieve 
social, economic, and political justice currently are focused on issues 
such as racial profiling, police brutality, hate crimes, and 
discrimination.
  Today, the Southern Christian Leadership is a nationwide organization 
that is made up of chapters and affiliates with programs that affect 
the lives of all Americans.
  Its sphere of influence and interests has become international in 
scope because the battle for human rights is one that transcends 
national boundaries.
  Madam Speaker, I believe by recognizing organizations that have given 
so much to this country is sending a clear message to the American 
people that the legacy of its past and future presidents will never be 
forgotten.

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