Press Releases
“The first offer from my colleague was Kansas barbecue for Memphis barbecue. I didn’t see the point of that since Memphis already has the finest barbecue in the world,” stated Congressman Cohen, “but I’m looking forward to every delicious bite of Kansas steak.”
“I am very pleased to be a part of this important event on the anniversary of one of the darkest days in the history Memphis,” said Congressman Cohen. “As we rededicate ourselves to Dr. King’s dream, I will be standing alongside some of the most important civil rights activists in the country and some of my personal heroes in Congress, John Conyers and John Lewis. Tonight will provide a fitting tribute to Dr. King’s legacy and I am very proud to be representing the citizens of the 9th District on this important day.”
In April of 1968, Dr. King, who fought tirelessly for worker’s rights and a living wage, came to Memphis in support of the sanitation workers’ strike. As assassin’s bullet struck him as he stood on a balcony at the Lorraine Motel in downtown Memphis, now a part of the National Civil Rights Museum.
The following is a transcript of Congressman Cohen’s speech:
“Mr. Speaker, as most everybody in America knows, this is March Madness, and March Madness is a wonderful experience when people cheer for their basketball teams and watch great athletes compete for the national championship.
“I am very grateful that Mr. Belafonte has offered to participate in the Town Hall with me this weekend,” said Congressman Cohen. “As a personal friend and associate of Dr. King’s and a passionate crusader for civil rights and equal justice in America, Mr. Belafonte will be able to share his memories of Dr. King and address many issues of importance to the people of our district.”
“Memphis is one of the four largest inland ports in the country, attracting hundreds of millions in investment,” said Congressman Cohen. “With key players like FedEx and Northwest Airlines in District 9, transport and logistics have become the lifeblood of our city. I am happy that the public will have the opportunity to hear some of the DRA’s plans and ideas on the future of intermodal transport in the 9th District.”
The “I AM A MAN” Awards are presented each year to recognize outstanding individuals who promote excellence in the field of economic justice and equality. Past award recipients include President Bill Clinton and Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-35).
Other panelists include Arnold Perl, Chairman of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority; Larry Cox, President and CEO of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority; and John Moore, President and CEO of the Memphis Regional Chamber.
The Memphis Regional Chamber’s Breakfast Forum Series is the chamber’s monthly breakfast networking event which focuses on economic development.
- 30 -