[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 71 (Tuesday, May 1, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E578]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                       NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 1, 2018

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and respect that I 
take this time to recognize National Civil Rights Day, which was 
designated by the 100th United States Congress and proclaimed by 
President Ronald Reagan on August 12, 1987. On this historic occasion, 
we remember the struggle and perseverance of the brave leaders of the 
Civil Rights Movement who passionately fought for equal justice and 
opportunity under the law, while celebrating and honoring the lives of 
the countless individuals who tirelessly led the charge to create a 
better America, from President Abraham Lincoln to Susan B. Anthony to 
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. On this day, we also take the time to 
reflect on the continued efforts being made every day toward securing 
and protecting life and liberty for every citizen of our great nation.
  On August 28, 1963, Dr. King led an estimated 250,000 people in the 
March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Through his words and 
actions, Dr. King inspired his generation, as well as generations to 
come, while promoting racial equality in the United States. He was a 
peaceful human rights activist who denounced violence as a means to 
communicate. For his vision and work toward a just society, he was the 
youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. Dr. King is worthy of the 
highest praise and continues to be the truest example of all that is 
good and noble in the struggle for equality and freedom.
  The work of Dr. King and each individual who sought positive change 
during the Civil Rights Movement has strengthened the resolve of future 
generations. The lasting legacy of these individuals has transformed 
society in Northwest Indiana, throughout the United States, and beyond. 
At home in Northwest Indiana, our communities have, for decades, been 
fortunate to have outstanding leaders of all races, genders, and creeds 
who have led by example and dedicated themselves to the ideals inspired 
by the Civil Rights Movement, those of justice, equality, and freedom. 
Northwest Indiana is also the proud home to many community groups and 
individuals that have given of their time and greatest efforts to 
ensure that our civil rights are protected.
  I also congratulate the efforts of former Gary, Indiana Mayor Richard 
Hatcher who, in 1967, was one of two African Americans elected to serve 
as mayor of a large city. This marked the first time in our nation's 
history that an African American would hold this office. Following his 
twenty years of service in this capacity, Mayor Hatcher has continued 
to work on many projects throughout Northwest Indiana. His proposal for 
the National Civil Rights Hall of Fame in Gary will honor and recognize 
the great contributions of those who challenged American culture and 
whose shoulders we currently stand on as we work to secure a truly 
fair, just, and tolerant society.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in commemorating National Civil Rights Day. We are honored to 
take this time to remember those who fight so courageously for 
equality, and we thank them for their perseverance, sacrifice, and 
struggle. The significance of National Civil Rights Day will continue 
to hold special meaning for generations to come.

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