[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 25 (Friday, February 15, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E169]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 15, 2013

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join millions of people across 
the nation to celebrate Black History Month. This year's theme, ``At 
the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation 
and the March on Washington,'' acknowledges two pivotal impacts on 
American history.
  On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the proclamation 
to end slavery in the South and to preserve a republic for all people. 
A century later, hundreds of thousands of people of all backgrounds 
marched to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., seeking equality 
for everyone in America.
  It was also where Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his 
famous ``I Have A Dream'' speech which echoes through the nation even 
until this day. Both events marked the beginning of endless 
opportunities for minorities serving as foundations for the structure 
of public organizations of the 21st century.
  Fighting for equality is a constant struggle that requires the 
efforts of all of us in our time. As we celebrate the 150th year of the 
Emancipation Proclamation and the 50th anniversary of the March of 
Washington, we must keep working towards progress by reducing poverty 
and encouraging higher education in our communities.
  I have dedicated my life to promoting equality for all as I continue 
to remember the racial and social injustices that took place many years 
ago. I will remain persistent in advocating for progress alongside my 
fellow Colleagues in Congress.

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