[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 29 (Thursday, February 12, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E268-E269]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE NAACP ON ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK E. SOUDER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 12, 2009

  Mr. SOUDER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 
35, honoring the contributions of the National Association for the 
Advancement of Colored People, NAACP, and specifically to pay tribute 
to the Fort Wayne/Allen County Branch that serves the citizens of 
northeast Indiana.
  As we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the NAACP, it is important 
to take time to look back on its accomplishments. Throughout its 
history the NAACP has advanced the cause of civil rights and stirred 
the conscience of our nation. Madame Speaker, whether it was standing 
side by side with Rosa Parks, helping to outlaw the evil practice of 
lynching, or helping victims of Hurricane Katrina get back on their 
feet, the NAACP has stood as a ``voice'' and a ``shield'' for minority 
Americans.
  Madam Speaker, from its humble beginnings in a hotel room across from 
Niagara Falls, to its current operations across the country, the NAACP 
has grown with our nation. Over the years, it has stayed true to its 
mission of eliminating racial hatred and racial discrimination.
  In northeastern Indiana the NAACP, under the new leadership of the 
Reverend Bill McGill, has dedicated itself to improving the lives of 
local minority youth. Madam Speaker, in these difficult economic times 
the NAACP helps provide these youth with the opportunity they deserve 
and ensures the promise of our nation extends to all our citizens.
  This past January I was pleased to host members of the local branch 
of the NAACP for the Presidential inauguration, and I was once again 
struck by their commitment to solving the problems facing our nation. 
Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H. Con. Res. 35 and urge my 
colleagues to join me in praising the work of the NAACP and its members 
in northeast Indiana.

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