Schakowsky Statement Celebrating Black History Month
EVANSTON – Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) issued the following statement commemorating Black History Month:
“This February, we celebrate Black History Month and honor the work of the Black leaders, pioneers, trailblazers, and heroes who broke down barriers and helped propel our nation forward. It is leaders like Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., and my dear friend John Lewis, who took a stand and fought for a cause greater than themselves. It was their ‘good trouble,’ along with many others, that paved the way for future generations to have a better life. This month, and every month, let us celebrate their triumphs, advancements, and innovations. Black history is American history, period.”
“As we reflect on the great strides we have made, we recognize there is still a lot of work left to do. Just this week, as the nation mourned the victims of the devastating midair collision in Washington, D.C., President Trump held a press conference to falsely blame diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives for the cause of this incident. Not only are Trump’s claims untrue, but they also speak to his desire to divide us as a country. We must never let hate win. Dr. King famously said, ‘Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love will do that.’
“I am proud to represent my hometown of Evanston, Illinois, the first jurisdiction to pass a reparations resolution to help dismantle the systems of oppression that remain from slavery, and the 9th Congressional District, one of the most diverse districts in the nation. Our diversity is truly one of our greatest strengths.
“This Black History Month let’s all embrace this diversity and reflect on how we can work to make the world a better place. As the famed poet and activist Amanda Gorman once said, ‘For there is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it. If only we are brave enough to be it.’”
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