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Pelosi Statement on Black History Month

February 1, 2016

Contact: Drew Hammill/Evangeline George, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in recognition of Black History Month:

“Each Black History Month, our nation honors the rich contributions Africans Americans have made to the economic, cultural, scientific, and artistic heritage of the United States. African Americans’ courageous leadership, strategic advocacy, and persistent efforts to make the promise of America available to all people continue to shape and strengthen our great democracy.

“The African American story is at the heart of the American story. Our nation – long shaped by the inhumanity of slavery, sharecropping, segregation, and mass incarceration – continues to strive to ensure that the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are available to all Americans. Together, we continue moving forward to ensure equality of opportunity for all, not just the privileged few.

“In the Congress, we honor the unique history of African Americans by insisting that the rights and privileges of our democracy are available to every citizen. House Democrats remain committed to restoring and reauthorizing the Voting Rights Act – and ensuring that every community has the resources and freedom to participate in shaping the future of our nation.”

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Issues:Human Rights