[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 26 (Friday, February 26, 2010)]
[House]
[Page H936]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          BLACK HISTORY MONTH

  (Mrs. DAHLKEMPER asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Mrs. DAHLKEMPER. Mr. Speaker, in honor of Black History Month, I rise 
to celebrate the lives of two African Americans from Erie, 
Pennsylvania.
  Born in 1886, Harry T. Burleigh was a world-famous musician. Burleigh 
was the first African American composer acclaimed for his concert 
music, and he wrote more than 200 American art songs.
  After his death in 1949, Harry Burleigh was largely forgotten until 
Rev. Charles Kennedy of Erie revived his memory. Rev. Kennedy, a 
minister and a musician, was a distinguished community leader and 
president of the Harry T. Burleigh Society. He championed the legacy of 
Burleigh's incredible talent. Sadly, Rev. Kennedy passed away this 
November.
  Harry Burleigh and Charles Kennedy made unforgettable contributions 
to the African American community and all of American society. For 
Black History Month and every month, we honor their memories.

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