Gallego Statement on Black History Month
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Ruben Gallego (AZ-03) released the following statement today in recognition of Black History Month.
Statement from Rep. Gallego (AZ-03):
“Every Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the leadership, advocacy, and storied courage that the Black community has brought to our nation’s history and democracy. Unfortunately, while we would prefer to spend this month reflecting on the progress from our past, the injustices and inequities of the present are as disturbing as ever.
“Just last week, we saw with open eyes the killing of Tyre Nichols in another disturbing case of police violence. The scourge of systemic inequality in policing remains, though I remain hopeful that Congress will take action through the framework we set out in the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act in 2021.
“At the same time, state legislatures across our nation, including in Arizona, are waging a sinister battle against voting rights. We must oppose these efforts at voter suppression, and instead work to protect and expand the sacred right to vote at the federal level, including through the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act.
“These goals are achievable, but only if we have the courage to stand on our principles, and if necessary, abolish the filibuster to get these bills passed. My position remains crystal clear: Black lives and Black rights are worth far more than a Jim Crow-era legislative tool.
“As we continue building a stronger, fairer future for our children and grandchildren, I am proud to be part of the most diverse House Democratic Caucus in history, led by the soon-to-be first Black Speaker of the House, Hakeem Jeffries. May this month be a reminder of the hard-fought progress of our past, but also a reminder of the critical work that lies ahead.”
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Rep. Ruben Gallego is a Marine Corps combat veteran who served in Iraq. He serves on the House Armed Services Committee, the House Natural Resources Committee, and the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. |