[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.

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