Congresswoman Beatty Commemorates Black History Month

Since its first inception as "Negro History Week" in 1926, what we now call "Black History Month" has been an opportunity not only to chronicle the path of Black history, but to reflect on the challenges and issues currently facing the African-American community. To mark Black History Month, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Vice-Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, issued the following statement:

"Over the next 28 days, we as a nation pause to reflect and recognize the contributions of African-American leaders, as well as raise awareness of the historical moments in our country's ongoing fight for fairness, equality, and civil rights. Black history is American history, and it is incumbent on all of us to ensure the hard-won progress made in the fight for civil rights and equal justice is not forgotten, but rather celebrated and improved upon. In that spirit, I encourage Central Ohioans and all Americans to join me this month and all year long in celebrating the countless trailblazers past and present—not to mention those still to come—who sacrificed everything in the name of equal rights and dignity for all people."

To coincide with Black History Month, Beatty plans to introduce three resolutions to honor Black veterans. These resolutions if passed would: (1) call for the reissuance of a commemorative postage stamp in honor of the Buffalo Soldiers; (2) support the goals and ideals of Black History Month and honor the outstanding contributions of African-American Medal of Honor recipients; and (3) express Congress' recognition of the difficult challenges Black veterans face when returning home, their heroic military sacrifices, and their patriotism.

Throughout February, Beatty will recognize Black History Month across all her social media platforms. So, be sure to visit the Congresswoman's Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to see, hear, and learn the latest. Also, you too can join the conversation online by using #BlackHistoryMonth, #BHM, and #BHM2019.