Press Releases

“Every February, the nation celebrates the many accomplishments and contributions that African Americans have made to the United States. Black History Month also is a reminder that diversity is one of our country’s greatest strengths.

“Two years before my election to represent Florida’s 24th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives, the United States elected its first African-American president. We have since then celebrated President Obama’s re-election, and commemorated the anniversaries of landmark events and legislation, including the March on Washington, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Historic moments like these symbolize the many sacrifices our forebears made in the fight for freedom and equality, how far we have come, and how far we’ve yet to go.

“In an ideal world, African-Americans’ cultural, scientific, political, artistic and other contributions to the nation would be taught and celebrated every day. African-American history is, after all, American history, but until such achievements are treated equally, the need for Black History Month continues.”

Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson is a third-term Congresswoman from Florida representing parts of Northern Miami-Dade and Southeast Broward counties. A former state legislator and school principal, she is the founder of the 5000 Role Models for Excellence Project, a mentoring program for young males at risk of dropping out of school. Congresswoman Wilson also founded the Florida Ports Caucus, a bipartisan taskforce that coordinates federal action in support of Florida’s harbors and waterways.