[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 147 (Wednesday, September 5, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1207]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE AMERICAN MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 5, 2018

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
American Missionary Association.
  The American Missionary Association (AMA) was formed in 1846 by 19th 
Century missionaries with the sole goal to abolish slavery and educate 
all escaped and freed slaves. The organization is known for its work of 
creating 11 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across 
the nation.
  The diverse leaders of the American Missionary Association consisted 
of four African-Americans out of its 12-person charter. The entity was 
rooted in the Christian faith but worked beyond the ministry allowing 
the creation of Berea College, Clark Atlanta University, Fisk 
University, Hampton University, Dillard University and my alma mater 
Tougaloo College. The American Missionary Association also aided in the 
founding of Howard University.
  In 1931, the association joined the Congregational Christian 
Churches, which is now known as the United Church of Christ.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 
history of the American Missionary Association and all the work they 
provided to educated African-Americans, including myself throughout the 
nation.

                          ____________________