Sens. Carper and Coons Commemorate Black History Month

WILMINGTON, DE – Today, U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons (both D-Del.) issued the following statements to mark the beginning of Black History Month. Senators Carper and Coons  joined Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and a bipartisan group of 41 colleagues in cosponsoring a Senate Resolution to commemorate and celebrate Black History Month in the United States. The resolution was introduced today:

“The formation of a more perfect union is an ideal that we must constantly strive to meet,” Sen. Carper said. “Over the years, our great nation has made important steps in promoting equality for people of all creeds and races. During the month of February, we look back at the progress we have made and honor the men and women who dedicated their lives to this cause. In the First State we remember the bravery of Delaware native Samuel Burris, as a conductor on the Underground Railroad who helped lead the way to freedom for thousands of slaves.   As we approach the 60^th anniversary of the historic Brown vs. the Board of Education decision, we celebrate the life of Delaware’s first African-American attorney, Louis Redding and his important contribution to the case.  And we recognize the Milford Eleven who sought to bring Brown. vs. the Board to realization in Delaware in their attempt to integrate Milford High School.  This month, let’s remember the tremendous achievements of African Americans here in Delaware, and throughout the country, and the contributions they made to help define and reflect the very identity and greatness of our country. Let’s also redouble our efforts to ensure that we are always moving forward toward the ideals of equality and justice.”

“African Americans have made remarkable contributions to our state and our country — contributions that deserve to be remembered and appreciated year-round,” Sen. Coons said. “From the Milford Eleven, who were the first brave students to integrate Milford High School, to Underground Railroad conductors like Samuel D. Burris, Delaware’s history is full of African American heroes. The Senate’s resolution commemorating Black History Month honors their legacy, and I hope it will help inspire the next generation of leaders as they step forward to shape our future.”