Schakowsky Recognizes Black History Month

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Chief Deputy Whip, issued the following statement in recognition of Black History Month:

“During Black History month, and every month, let us celebrate the invaluable contributions of generations of Black Americans and recognize the heroes who have fought so hard to make our nation a more equitable place. People like Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., and my dear friend John Lewis, just to name a few. These Civil Rights icons, alongside countless everyday Americans, have pushed our nation forward.

“Black history is American history, period. We cannot succumb to the far-right extremists who are turning a blind eye to our nation’s disturbing history of oppression and brutality by prohibiting students and teachers from talking about issues related to race. Shockingly, just today, the College Board, who administers advanced placement courses, purged the names of many Black writers and scholars associated with critical race theory, the queer experience and Black feminism from its curriculum. We have a responsibility to call out racism wherever we see it.

“Tragically, we continue to see the death of young Black men and women at the hands of police abuse. Tyre Nichols’ killing by Memphis police is another example of the deep-rooted injustices in our criminal justice system. At his funeral today, Vice President Kamala Harris called on Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. I could not agree more, we need accountability. Justice must prevail for Tyre’s family and our nation.

“We can never let hate win; we all must reflect on how we can make the country a more equitable place. I am grateful to all the leaders who continue to push our country in the right direction. Our work is never done, and I am ready to continue the fight."

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