[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 19489]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO ISADORE BANKS

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                           HON. MARION BERRY

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 9, 2010

  Mr. BERRY. Madam Speaker, I am here today to pay tribute to Isadore 
Banks, a proud World War I veteran, important leader in the community, 
and someone I am proud to say made east Arkansas his home. In June of 
1954, Isadore became the victim of a heinous racially charged murder 
for which his attackers were never found. I ask all my fellow 
colleagues to stand with me today to honor the memory of this great man 
and also to condemn such senseless acts of violence in the history of 
this Nation.
  Although born in Georgia, after serving in World War I, Isadore Banks 
would come to call Crittenden County, Arkansas, home. As a place where 
racial tensions ran high at the time, Isadore made a name for himself 
as one of the most successful farmers in the area.
  Isadore was acutely aware of troubles faced by the black community. 
He used his business savvy to help create a cotton gin business that 
helped to support other black farmers, and would often buy school 
supplies for black schools around town that were in need. He is most 
notable for almost singlehandedly bringing electricity to the town of 
Marion in the 1920s.
  In a time of heavy racial violence, Isadore Banks became an 
inspiration to the whole community, and something of a political 
leader. His strength and courage in the face of these challenging 
times, and his compassion for the plight of his fellow man will serve 
as a reminder to us all--that we should never carry hate in our hearts, 
but always love in our actions.
  My blessings and prayers go to Isadore's family. We shall never 
forget him.

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