Hoyer Video Message on Black History Month
Mariel Saez 202-225-3130
WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released a video message today marking Black History Month, which is recognized throughout the month of February. Below is a transcript and a link to the video.
Click here to watch the video.
“Hi. I’m Congressman Steny Hoyer of Maryland and the Democratic Whip in the House of Representatives.
“Throughout February, we celebrate Black History Month as a time to reflect on both the triumphs and the struggles of the African-American experience.
“No matter one’s race, faith, or national origin, every American has been impacted by black history.
“From the shameful history of slavery and segregation in our nation, to the rise of the Civil Rights Movement, to the enormous contributions of African American leaders, artists, scientists, and athletes to our culture and society – black history is American history.
“In heroes like Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, and John Lewis we find inspiration and courage to stand up for the principles of the American promise.
“In trailblazers like Katherine Johnson, Thurgood Marshall, and Shirley Chisholm we celebrate the spirit of American progress.
“And in artists like Marian Anderson, Langston Hughes, and Misty Copeland we experience more deeply the world we share in all its beauty.
“I’m proud to serve alongside outstanding leaders in the Congressional Black Caucus – and to work with them on building a more perfect union so that all our children can inhabit a land of freedom, justice, and opportunity.
“Our country today may be facing uncertain days and the prospect of slipping backward in certain areas.
“But should all remember the lessons that black history has taught us: that perseverance and faith will see us through to brighter days.
“And, when we work together as one people in a spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood, surely ‘justice will roll down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.’
“So as we mark Black History Month 2017, let us do so with recognition of the difficult work that lies ahead but lifted up by the example of those who came before. Facing the rising sun of a new day begun, let us march on, until victory is won. Thank you.”