[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 17 (Wednesday, January 28, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E162-E163]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING REVEREND CLAUDE BLACK JUNIOR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CHARLES A. GONZALEZ

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 28, 2009

  Mr. GONZALEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today just days after the 
historic inauguration of our country's 44th President to honor a 
similarly honorable and trailblazing individual, Reverend Claude Black 
Jr. of San Antonio. On Sunday, January 18th, 2009, Rev. Black will be 
honored at Realizing the Dream's second annual Holiday Commemoration of 
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with the organization's Testament of Hope 
Award. I join the organization in offering my congratulations for all 
his achievements and contributions to our country.
  Born in a segregated San Antonio in 1916, Rev. Black's lifelong 
commitment to civil rights, justice, and equality is well-deserving of 
this recognition and honor. From leading marches for civil rights to 
attending the White House's Conference on Civil Rights in 1966 with 
President Lyndon Johnson, he has always been at the forefront of the 
fight for equality. And as the first African American Mayor Pro Tem of 
San Antonio in 1974, he paved the way for future African Americans to 
seek elected office and rightfully participate in our democracy.
  Rev. Black is a hero and inspiration to all Americans. His efforts to 
better our society are not only worthy of this recognition but also our 
sincere gratitude. I am honored to call him a constituent, congratulate 
him for this recognition, and thank him for all he has done on behalf 
our community and our country.

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