Cohen Statement on Black History Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today released the following statement to commemorate Black History Month, which is observed every February:

“Every February, Americans of all races come together to celebrate Black History Month. African-American history is filled with extraordinary people who have left an indelible mark on our nation and the world. This month we pay special attention to the cultural, political, social and scientific contributions made by African-Americans that have enriched our nation. In Memphis, we celebrate heroines like Ida B. Wells, Maxine Smith and Minerva Johnican, and heroes like Russell Sugarmon and Rev. Benjamin Hooks. We also have honored other influential African-Americans with local ties by naming our federal building after Judge Odell Horton and the main post office after Kenneth Whalum.

“All Americans have special cause this February to be proud of our diversity and the progress that we’ve made as a country. Though the fight for equality is not over, America put a down payment on Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream that one day people will be judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. This month, let us recommit ourselves to the proposition that all are created equal, all deserve respect, and all have a fair chance to achieve their full measure of economic opportunity and prosperity.”