Honoring The 25th Anniversary Of Rev. Jesse Jackson's Presidential Campaign
Floor Speech
Honoring The 25th Anniversary Of Rev. Jesse Jackson's Presidential Campaign
Mr. COHEN. This morning during 1-minutes, 15 Members of the Democratic Caucus honored Rev. Jesse Jackson on the 25th anniversary of his Presidential run. He was the first African American male to run for President, and his contributions to our society cannot be overstated. He has a long career in civil rights work, and his leadership in forming the Rainbow Coalition is well known to all Americans.
It is important to note his place on the world stage, a role in which he has been an effective leader, negotiator, and voice for America around the world. Rev. Jackson's skills have been applied to international relations in Syria, where he freed Navy Lieutenant Robert Goodman in 1983. President Reagan recognized Rev. Jackson's essential contribution by hosting Rev. Jackson and Lieutenant Goodman at the White House. In 1984, Rev. Jackson negotiated the release of 22 Americans held in Cuba.
Although Rev. Jackson declined an opportunity to become Ambassador to South Africa because he wanted to help his son Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., seek election--which he did, as he was elected to this body in 1996--President Clinton had requested he be named Ambassador. He, instead, named him a special envoy for democracy in 1997. Subsequently, Jesse Jackson met with Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi to promote free and fair elections in Kenya. In 1999, he was in Kosovo and negotiated the release of three POWs.
Jesse Jackson's career on the international stage has been spectacular, and his place in history is assured. His passion, his dedication, and his continuing influence for change are hallmarks of his life. We need look no further than today's tribute to him when a group of House pages, a Rainbow Coalition themselves, excitedly sought to have their picture taken with the Reverend Jackson and did, after he finished his appearance here in the gallery and listening to the 1-minutes this morning.
I join my fellow House Members in recognizing this 25th anniversary of the Presidential run of Rev. Jesse Jackson and appreciate what he's done for our Nation.
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