U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige today issued the following statement congratulating Dorothy Height, chair and president emerita of the National Council of Negro Women, for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal.

"I extend my warmest congratulations to Dorothy Height as she receives the Congressional Gold Medal. This is truly a remarkable day for one of the greatest civil rights advocates this nation has ever known. For more than 60 years, Dorothy has worked tirelessly to end segregation and prejudice because she believed that all Americans deserve to be treated equally. Through the National Council of Negro Women, she made it possible for African American women everywhere to have a better opportunity in life by promoting health projects, supporting economic development and entrepreneurship and providing educational support. Her dedication to African Americans is inspiring and her legacy unmatched. I'm very blessed and fortunate to have the opportunity to work with and know Dorothy, and I admire her courage and dedication.

"Today I say to Dorothy, not only are you my hero, you are the hero to millions of African Americans worldwide. You are very deserving of the honor that goes with this medal because your steadfastness and sacrifices paved the way for many generations to come. This country is a better place because of your hard work and for that, I thank you, Dorothy.

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