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Pallone Statement on Black History Month

February 1, 2017

Washington, DC- Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement on the celebration of Black History Month, which begins on February 1.

“Every February we commemorate Black History Month and recognize the important contributions African Americans have made to our nation’s history and identity. African Americans in New Jersey and across the country have withstood obstacles and prejudices to enrich our national life in enumerable ways, from business to culture to public service.

“While we have made tremendous strides, too many African Americans children grow up in poverty and too many are put at a disadvantage because of flaws in our justice system. And in recent years we have seen the ugliness of racism surface in our political debates, whether it be denying that the first African-American President was born in the United States or efforts to fight the Voting Rights Act.

“Martin Luther King Jr. said ‘The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.’ I am actively working to ensure that this is reflected in Congress through our budgets and the policies we enact – from housing to voting rights to healthcare. This month, we reflect on the rich history and unquestionable contributions that African Americans have made to our nation’s greatness. And always, we must continue to confront the injustices we see today, to ensure a more just future.”