[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 125 (Wednesday, July 25, 2018)]
[House]
[Pages H7170-H7171]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   AFRICAN AMERICAN VETERANS MONUMENT

  (Mr. HIGGINS of New York asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute.)
  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
work of a committee in western New York dedicated to constructing the 
only monument in the Nation honoring African Americans who served in 
the United States military during times of war. This long-overdue 
tribute acknowledges the selfless sacrifice of our veterans, many of 
whom served our Nation while being denied equal rights at home.
  The African American Veterans Monument, to be located in the Buffalo 
and Erie County Military Park, will feature 12 illuminated black 
pillars, representing U.S. military conflicts, and is designed to give 
visitors an experience that is reflective, educational, and 
inspirational.
  The monument is being designed by a local, young, talented artist, 
Jonathan Casey. I have asked the Smithsonian National Museum of African 
American History and Culture to collaborate with local project leaders 
on this first-in-the-Nation African American Veterans Memorial.
  Mr. Speaker, I commend the veterans, the artist, and New York State

[[Page H7171]]

Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes, who have dedicated themselves to 
making this monument a reality. It is a long-overdue recognition of 
those who served proudly and courageously.

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