[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 24 (Wednesday, February 13, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E175]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          BLACK HISTORY MONTH-

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 13, 2008

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with a great sense of honor that 
I rise to celebrate Black History Month and its 2008 theme--Carter G. 
Woodson and the Origins of Multiculturalism. Dr. Woodson's life and 
words remind us, as Americans, that in order to continue to move 
forward, we must take the time to reflect on the past.
  The theme for this year's Black History Month, Carter G. Woodson and 
the Origins of Multiculturalism, is a reminder that in striving for a 
greater society, we must examine the past. A brilliant author, 
publisher, and historian, Dr. Woodson understood that history was much 
more than facts on a page, but rather a detailed account and 
interpretation of the struggles and achievements of society as a whole. 
It was this belief that motivated Dr. Woodson to author many books and 
publish many articles on the outstanding contributions of so many proud 
and courageous African Americans.
  Dr. Woodson's belief in the importance of historical study played a 
critical role in preserving the rich history of African Americans 
throughout the United States. His efforts led to the foundation of 
Negro History Week, which would later become Black History Month. His 
writings and teachings encourage not only African Americans, but all 
Americans, to reflect on, become educated about, and treasure these 
outstanding efforts. Dr. Woodson has also been seen by many other 
historians as a true inspiration. In the First Congressional District, 
I am proud to represent organizations such as the Interfaith Federation 
of Northwest Indiana, under the leadership of Executive Director 
Patricia Jackson, and the Gary Frontiers Service Club, under the 
leadership of President Oliver J. Gilliam, which have carried on such 
important ideals, reiterating the need for merging cultural beliefs and 
tradition and coming together to reflect on the past in seeking to 
improve the future.
  It is the efforts of organizations like the Interfaith Federation and 
the Gary Frontiers Service Club that allow us to reflect on what makes 
the United States of America so special. Nowhere else in the world do 
you find such an integrated society. While the United States is made up 
of people from so many different cultural, religious, social, and 
ideological backgrounds, it is our freedom and our ability to share our 
backgrounds with each other that is the true testament to the American 
way of life.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me 
in honoring Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the Interfaith Federation, the Gary 
Frontiers Service Club and the many organizations throughout the United 
States that continue to preserve the African American heritage for all 
Americans. Through their words and teachings, these honorable 
individuals and organizations remind us all of the struggles and 
accomplishments that African Americans have made to lead us to where we 
are as a Nation today, while reminding us that there is still progress 
to be made.

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