WASHINGTON - Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) issued the following statement commemorating Black History Month.
“Black history is American history––and we must honor, celebrate, and learn from the monumental achievements of Black Americans. While not always pretty or comfortable to discuss, Black history shines a light on the everlasting resilience of patriots in the Black community who––through blood, sweat, and tears refused to give up on the promise of America.
"This month presents a meaningful time to remember all those who overcame racism, oppression, discrimination, and inequality to pursue historic achievements in medicine, business, science, technology, politics, sports, and law. Black History Month celebrates the ability to achieve the ‘unachievable’ and exemplifies that anything is possible with faith, fortitude, and fearlessness.
"Today, we are the nation we are because of icons who refused to cower in the eye of signs that read ‘whites only’ or mobs of white-hooded racists that threatened death to freedom-seeking Americans from Selma, Alabama, Little Rock, Arkansas, Memphis, Tennessee, and beyond. Despite significant barriers––the men and women we celebrate today refused to see oppression as a crutch but as the catalyst for seeking Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.
"As we celebrate Black History Month, let us remember how far we’ve come as a nation and honor the lives of patriotic Americans who dedicated their lives to bringing us together and ensuring that we live up to the sacred promise of our founding documents. I’m eternally grateful to be standing on the shoulders of generations before me that have brought forth the America of today.
