Rep. Gloria Negrete McLeod Celebrates Black History Month

Statement

Today, Rep. Gloria Negrete McLeod joined millions of Americans in marking the annual celebration of February as Black History Month -- a commemoration that has occurred in America since 1976.

"During Black History Month, we honor the contributions, achievements, and strength of the African-American community that has helped shape our nation's history and identity," said Rep. Negrete McLeod. "This Black History Month let us also celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 50th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s March on Washington."

150 years ago, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring that "all persons held as slaves" in rebellious areas "shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free." He opened the Union Army and Navy to African Americans, giving new strength to liberty's cause. And with the proclamation, President Lincoln lent new moral force to the war by making it a fight not just to preserve the Union, but also to end slavery.

The historic March on Washington that occurred 50 years ago was the site of many Americans who marched and witnessed Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. give his famous "I Have A Dream" speech. The March on Washington is credited by historians as playing a key role in leading to the enactment of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

"As we commemorate the anniversaries of these two landmarks on Black History Month, let us vow that we will continue to work towards creating an America that fully lives up to its ideals and allows all Americans to reach their full potential and achieve their version of the American Dream."

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