LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON BLACK HISTORY MONTH

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, in recognition of Black History Month, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries issued the following statement: 

Black history is American history. This month is a time to reflect on the countless achievements and contributions of Black Americans and acknowledge the work that is still left to be done. We stand on their shoulders and continue to be inspired by trailblazers like Harriet Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Shirley Chisholm, John Lewis and Barack Obama, and we remain committed to building upon their legacy. 

Our country’s founding document, The Declaration of Independence, states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equally and endowed by our Creator with certain unalienable rights. And among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” As the great Barbara Jordan once pointed out, these words were eloquent in their articulation but incomplete in their application. Our community’s journey has been both triumphant and turbulent. 

Today as we remember the life of Tyre Nichols, we also know that though we have come a long way here in America, we still have a way to go. As Democrats, we will continue the fight for liberty and justice for all, and continue our long, necessary and majestic march towards a more perfect union.