Congressman Cohen's Statement Commemorating Black History Month

Press Release

Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement to commemorate Black History Month, which is observed each February:

"The courage, creativity, and resilience of Black Americans throughout our nation's history is a rich heritage from which we all benefit. Each February, we are encouraged to celebrate and pay special attention to the extraordinary political, scientific, artistic and cultural contributions made by Black Americans.

"Black Americans have made remarkable achievements and contributions even as they were legally enslaved, then treated as second-class citizens and still to this day deal with the injustices stemming from systemic racism and the legacy of Jim Crow and other discriminatory laws.

"Congress passed in July 2008 my bill making the historic first Congressional apology for slavery and racial segregation. The country grapples daily with the residue of injustice.

"While our nation has made great strides for civil rights in the nearly sixty years since the marches from Selma to Montgomery, there is much work left to do to heal the wounds of oppression. As we look forward to addressing and correcting systemic issues in voting rights, policing, schooling, and other pressing matters disproportionately affecting Black Americans, let us recommit to realizing Dr. King's dream and work to ensure all Americans have equal opportunities and that their civil rights are strengthened and preserved."

Congressman Cohen is a senior member of the Judiciary Committee and Chairman of its Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties.

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