Last Friday began a weekend of remembrance for the civil rights movement in Alabama, marking the 38th anniversary of the historic Selma-to-Montgomery march.

Congressman Mike Rogers was there Friday, and along with over twenty of his Congressional colleagues, used the opportunity to develop closer relationships with some of the country’s most well-known civil rights figures, as well as push for funding for a significant civil rights project.

“Most importantly, I believe that the struggle for equality African-Americans faced in 1965 is in many ways still with us,” Rogers said. “While we must look forward and recognize the gains we have made, we must not forget the pain and suffering so many experienced to us get here—we still have a lot of work to do.”

Rogers, who recently sponsored a Congressional Resolution recognizing the contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, used the event to drive home the funding needs for the Selma-to-Montgomery Historic Trail. The National Park Service project has been under way for many years, and Rogers, whose Congressional district includes parts of the trail, said he intends to push for its completion.

“I look forward to working with Governor Riley and Congressmen Everett and Davis in securing funding for the Trail,” Rogers continued. “The project helps memorialize the struggle African-Americans experienced in Alabama, and serves as a living history lesson on civil rights for our children.”