[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 158 (Friday, September 26, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E897]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
CELEBRATING THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE COLORED MUSICIANS CLUB
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HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY
of new york
in the house of representatives
Friday, September 26, 2025
Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the 90th
Anniversary of the Colored Musicians Club, a historic beacon of light
and entertainment in Buffalo, New York. As we honor this momentous
occasion, may we reflect on the club's incredible history, its
unwavering commitment to spreading African-American musical culture,
and the transformative impact it has had on the lives of countless
individuals throughout Western New York and across the globe.
Chartered on May 14, 1935, the Colored Musicians Club incorporated
space for musicians to practice, rehearse and perform. The club,
separate from their union, Local 533, gave members the opportunity to
have a place to call their own in Buffalo, New York. Nearly six and
half decades later, the Colored Musicians Club was designated a
preservation site, and today, remains as the only operating African-
American musicians club within the United States.
As the organization celebrates its ninetieth anniversary, providing a
valuable opportunity to strengthen connections and further their
mission ``to stimulate its members to greater musical expression; to
encourage and develop a fuller appreciation of music on the part of its
members and the public; and generally to unite its members in the bonds
of friendship, good fellowship and mutual understanding,'' they honor
the legacies of members who came before them, cultivate long-lasting
friendships, and inspire future generations of musicians to play and
lead with unwavering dedication to their craft; ensuring that the
spirit of music lives on through every note they play.
Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate ninety years of African-American musical
culture, let us honor the countless musicians and guests who have been
touched by the musical selections of those who performed.
Congratulations to the Colored Musicians Club on this significant
milestone. Their unwavering dedication to community members and
visitors throughout Western New York will be seen, felt, and heard for
generations to come, and we are all the better for it.
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