Van Hollen Statement on Black History Month

Van Hollen Statement on Black History Month

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) released the following statement today in recognition of Black History Month:

"Black History Month gives us an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the historical accomplishments of African Americans. This year's national theme - 'Celebrating Community: A Tribute to Black Fraternal, Social, and Civil Institutions' -- reminds us that the strength of the African American community is often rooted in its fraternal and civic organizations.

I have been privileged to have the opportunity to work with many of African American fraternal and social organizations that are active in my congressional district. They all do important work that makes a tangible difference to the quality of life in our community.

This year is the 100th anniversary of Alpha Phi Alpha, and I would like to take this opportunity to highlight this fraternity's activities and initiatives in my Congressional district. Alpha Phi Alpha is dedicated to serving others and to inspiring and empowering people to achieve success in all aspects of their lives. One of its distinguishing achievements is the establishment of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Foundation Project, which will pay tribute to one of the most influential figures in American history who worked to lead our nation towards greater justice and unity. The group's deep commitment to community empowerment through its numerous programs supporting education -- its scholarship and mentoring programs and its efforts to inspire and motivate black youth through its Career Fairs and Black Youth Achievement recognition programs -- have made a difference to countless young people.

For many years, I have welcomed the opportunity to attend the Montgomery County Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity's annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast program. This event, the success of which is evident in the consistent growth in the number of attendees and the county-wide praise it receives, is a service to Montgomery County. This gathering provides an opportunity for our community to rededicate itself to achieving equality and justice for all.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity's impressive list of members includes Justice Thurgood Marshall and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The important and productive work of Alpha Phi Alpha and other organizations began decades ago, yet there is still much work to be done. We must redouble our efforts to provide the African American community, and all of our communities, with the tools needed to ensure that each individual has the opportunity to achieve his or her full God-given potential. During Black History Month, we must recommit ourselves to supporting the ideals of Alpha Phi Alpha and other great institutions as we continue to strive for a better America."

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/speech/md08_vanhollen/Black_History_Month.html