[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 12, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E172]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 12, 2020

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and sincere 
admiration that I rise today to celebrate Black History Month and its 
2020 theme--African Americans and the Vote. 2020 marks the 100th 
anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment. This year's 
theme reflects on the extraordinary contributions of African Americans 
throughout the history of our democracy as we reflect on the ongoing 
efforts to ensure equality for all Americans. As we reflect on the 
past, this year's theme focuses on the fight to ensure that African 
American voices and votes mattered in America.
   The year 2020 commemorates the 115th anniversary of the 15th 
Amendment, which granted African American men the right to vote. When 
the amendment was first introduced, it did not mention black men. After 
the conclusion of the civil war, however, abolitionist Frederick 
Douglas spoke before the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society advocating 
for the right for black men to vote. While the debate continued, in 
1869, 150 African American men from seventeen states gathered for the 
first national meeting of African Americans in the history of the 
United States.
   The year 2020 also marks the 100th anniversary of the ratification 
of the 19th Amendment. During this time, the Women's Rights Movement 
was intertwined with the Antislavery Movement. African American women 
played a prominent role in the movement by organizing, attending, and 
speaking out at political and religious events, thus leading to the 
ratification of the 19th Amendment. We honor these brave and dedicated 
women who contributed to the foundation of African American liberty 
including Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Maria W. Stewart, Henrietta 
Purvis, Harriet Forten Purvis, and Sarah Redmon, among many others. As 
we pay tribute to these heroes of American history, let us remember 
their profound perseverance, sacrifice, and struggle in the fight for 
freedom and equality and the remarkable impact their contributions have 
had in shaping our great nation. This month and always, it is important 
that we honor and celebrate America's greatest advocates for equal 
rights and civil liberties.
   Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join 
me in celebrating Black History Month and honoring those who fought, 
and continue to fight, for civil rights and justice. We honor the 
African American men and women who have played such a crucial role in 
changing the landscape of American society for the better.

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