[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 97 (Thursday, June 12, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1220]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         EDWARD WILLIAM BROOKE III CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                           HON. NIKI TSONGAS

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 10, 2008

  Ms. TSONGAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my strong support for S. 
682, the ``Edward William Brooke III Congressional Gold Medal Act.'' It 
is my privilege to honor this most distinguished gentleman who broke 
barriers and tirelessly served his community and country with great 
conviction.
  Edward Brooke was the first African American elected to the United 
States Senate by popular vote. I am proud that he accomplished this 
feat in my home state of Massachusetts, which he represented from 
January 1967 until January 1979. He has been Captain Brooke, Professor 
Brooke, and Attorney General Brooke. He has fought for civil rights in 
our country and against apartheid in South Africa. For his many 
accomplishments, he has received numerous medals and awards, most 
notably the Bronze Star and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
  Senator Brooke paved the way--his election to the United States 
Senate was a milestone in the march toward racial equality--and his 
impact continues today, as we watch the first African American nominee 
run for President, carrying Senator Brooke's legacy forward.
  In a political world growing increasingly divisive and polarized, 
Senator Brooke has always had the distinct ability to separate the 
political from the personal. My husband, Paul, ran for the Senate 
against Senator Brooke in 1978. Although the race was tightly 
contested, Senator Brooke was always respectful, always warm, and Paul, 
in turn, greatly admired him.
  It is appropriate that we express our gratitude with this 
legislation. Senator Brooke, in his life and through his service, broke 
barriers and created new opportunities for so many, and in so doing, 
moved our country further down the path towards the America that we all 
hope will someday be a reality.

                          ____________________