[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 19 (Thursday, February 1, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E107]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. FRANK J. MRVAN

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 1, 2024

  Mr. MRVAN. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and sincere 
admiration that I rise today to celebrate Black History Month and its 
2024 theme--African Americans and the Arts. This year's theme reflects 
on the important work of African American artists throughout the 
country who preserve history, enrich communities, and create 
empowerment through the visual and performing arts including 
literature, film, music, fashion, culinary, architecture, and more.
  History has shown that the artistic contributions of African 
Americans have been minimized, excluded, and even denied. African 
American artistic movements such as the Black Renaissance, the Black 
Art Movement, and the introduction of the Hip-Hop music genre, to name 
a few, have been crucial in bringing about change, equality, and social 
justice to the African American community in the United States and all 
over the world.
  Throughout the years, Northwest Indiana has been home to many 
successful and noteworthy art-based organizations and programs that are 
truly inspiring. I would like to take a moment to recognize a few of 
them, past and present, including Vee-Jay Records, West Side Theater 
Guild, Gary International Black Film Festival, Gary Theatre Ensemble, 
Marshall J. Gardener Center for the Arts, Glen Theatre, the Gary Public 
Murals and Statues Program, the Miller Beach Arts and Creative 
District, and the Gary Public Art Competition, among others. For their 
unwavering dedication to preserving and honoring African Americans and 
the arts, each organization, program, and its members are worthy of the 
very highest praise.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in celebrating Black History Month and honoring the countless 
African Americans who have played such a critical role in enriching our 
culture through the arts. Let us commend each of them for their 
profound passion, creativity, and perseverance as they have enhanced 
the quality of life for all Americans.

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