[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 91 (Wednesday, June 17, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1441]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS

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                               speech of

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 15, 2009

  Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, as a member of Congress I am proud to 
participate in the celebration of Caribbean American Heritage Month. It 
has been a long and slow road to the recognition of the contributions 
of Caribbean Americans since the establishment of the Caribbean 
American Heritage Awards in 1994. This declaration is well overdue 
since the establishment of the Caribbean American Heritage Awards 15 
years ago and I am honored to be here to recognize the influential 
contributions of Caribbean Americans to American society. I would also 
like to commend my colleague Congresswoman Lee for her commitment to 
the recognition of the achievements of Caribbean Americans through her 
sponsorship and reintroduction of legislation to celebrate June as 
Caribbean American Heritage Month. Because of Congresswoman Lee's hard 
work President Bush issued a Proclamation on June 5, 2006 declaring 
June as Caribbean American Heritage Month. For over 100 years Caribbean 
Americans have enhanced American culture and diversity. Influential 
Caribbean Americans include Harry Belafonte, Shirley Chisholm, Sydney 
Poitier, Alexander Hamilton, and Malcolm X just to name a few. The 
influence and impact of Caribbean Americans extends far beyond this 
unexhausted list of notable Caribbean Americans. They have been leaders 
in public service, sports, entertainment, the arts, and many other 
fields. More importantly, Caribbean Americans are everyday men, women 
and children who aim to positively impact communities across America. 
Over five million Americans proudly share their Caribbean heritage. The 
Caribbean region remains an important regional partner due to its close 
proximity to the United States--evident in its collaborative work and 
strong economic, diplomatic, and strategic ties with the United States. 
During Caribbean American Heritage Month, we celebrate the 
contributions of Caribbean Americans to our country, and the common 
bonds and culture shared by the United States and Caribbean countries. 
America has thrived as a cultural melting pot, due in part to the 
spirit, morals, and skills of Caribbean Americans. I can not think of a 
better way to recognize and commemorate Caribbean Americans and the 
Caribbean region for their contributions to the United States than the 
celebration of Caribbean American Heritage Month. I, along with my 
colleagues, am honored to be a part of this celebration. Thank you, 
Madam Speaker.

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