Beatty Continues Commitment to Honoring African-American Veterans

February 13, 2015

Beatty Continues Commitment to Honoring African-American Veterans
Introduces resolution to acknowledge veterans accomplishments
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) announced the introduction of a Congressional Resolution honoring African-American veterans, H. Con. Res. 16 Joining Beatty as original cosponsors on the resolution are Representatives Sanford Bishop, William Lacy Clay, Yvette Clarke, Al Green, Raul Grijalva, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Charles Rangel, Bobby Rush, and David Scott.
"During Black History Month it is important that we recognize the struggles, sacrifices, and accomplishments of African-Americans," said Rep. Beatty. "This resolution is aimed to acknowledge the heroism and sacrifice of an often forgotten segment of our brave men and women in uniform."
The resolution recognizes the challenges faced by African-American veterans upon returning home after serving in the Armed Forces; their heroic military sacrifices; and their patriotism in fighting for civil rights, both at home and abroad. In addition, Beatty's resolution honors the bravery and resilience of African-American veterans and recognizes the pivotal role they played in the evolution of the Civil Rights Movement.
"This well-deserved resolution honoring African-American veterans and members of the armed forces puts Black History Month to one of its highest and best uses," Rep. Norton said. "I am happy to join my colleagues especially considering that our D.C. veterans and members of the armed forces serve without even the right to be represented by a vote in the House or Senate."
"I'm proud to join my colleagues in recognizing the unique challenges that African-American veterans faced after serving our nation in uniform. There is no higher mark of distinction than to fight to keep our nation safe. The fact that for African-American veterans, the fight continued once they came home in their struggle for civil rights, is a part of our history we must never forget," said Rep. Grijalva.
"Despite the extraordinary patriotism shown by these brave men and women abroad, many African-American veterans encountered tremendous challenges in the fight for civil liberties here in the United States," said Rep. Beatty. "This resolution recognizes these veterans, servicemembers, and patriots and aims to memorialize their admirable spirit and determination."