    [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 31 (Friday, February 14, 2025)]
    [Extensions of Remarks]
    [Pages E131-E132]
    From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

         HONORING AFRICAN AMERICANS IN LABOR DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

                                     ______

                              HON. FRANK J. MRVAN

                                   of indiana

                        in the house of representatives

                           Friday, February 14, 2025

      Mr. MRVAN. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and sincere
    admiration that I rise to celebrate Black History Month and its 2025
    theme--African Americans and Labor. This year's theme reflects on the
    struggles and triumphs of the Afncan American community in the
    workforce who have fought and continue

    [[Page E132]]

    to fight for equal and fair labor opportunities, practices, and
    legislation.
      Throughout the history of the United States, African Americans have
    endured extremely disparaging and harsh labor conditions including
    slavery, economic inequality, and discnmination. In the fight to create
    change in the labor system, many courageous people have worked
    tirelessly to protect, advance, and empower the African American
    workforce through activism, community building, and labor unions. Due
    to these efforts, America has seen significant positive change to its
    values and belief systems, and the effort continues today. The
    foundation of our great nation is reliant upon the advancement of a
    strong workforce, one that provides opportunities and economic
    stability for all people.
      I would like to take this time to honor a couple of the many
    dedicated leaders in Northwest Indiana who work diligently to support
    economic equality and labor opportunity for the African American
    community and for all people throughout the region and beyond. Arvella
    Greenlaw is a member of the United Steelworkers Local Union 6787 and
    the Women of Steel District 7 Coordinator. Throughout her career,
    Arvella has organized and developed community service projects and led
    volunteer efforts with the Women of Steel and numerous other
    organizations. For her dedication to union members in the fight for
    employment opportunity and equality, Arvella Greenlaw is to be highly
    commended. Joree Richards is an IBEW International Representative for
    the Sixth Distnct. Throughout his career, Joree has held many
    noteworthy positions and leadership roles. Through his work with the
    Indiana Plan, a pre-apprenticeship program endorsed by the Indiana
    State Building Trades, he leads efforts to support workers by providing
    them the skills and knowledge needed to prosper in the construction and
    building trades. Among the many great initiatives of the Indiana Plan,
    the organization works to promote the recruitment of women and
    minorities to the trades and to place candidates in construction jobs
    at a training rate. For his outstanding leadership and unwavenng
    commitment to providing workers with pathways to stable and rewarding
    careers, he is worthy of the highest praise.
      Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join
    me in celebrating Black History Month and recognizing the dedication
    and contributions of Arvella Greenlaw, Joree Richards, and so many
    other extraordinary members of the Afncan American community who
    continue to fight for safe working conditions, living wages, and growth
    opportunities in the workforce.

                              ____________________