WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL), alongside Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD), Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-SC), Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), and additional members from the United States House of Representatives and Senate took part in the unveiling of a statue honoring the life of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in the National Statuary Hall collection.       

"Today, on behalf of a grateful nation, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune will now permanently stand tall among historical giants where she belongs in National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. Her entrance into this collection makes her the first Black American to be commissioned by a state, and I am proud that she will now represent the people of Florida in this sacred location.

"As a Black American, I am particularly grateful for her invaluable contributions to Black Americans and the nation. As one of the most revered Black educators in history, a civil and women's rights leader, and a pioneer for the advancement of Black Americans, she worked tirelessly to ensure our nation lived up to our God-given purpose and potential. While she has roots in several states, her remarkable life and legacy will now forever represent the Great State of Florida—and we are honored to have that privilege."

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