Speeches
Pelosi: Congressional Black Caucus Remains the Conscience of the Congress
09/25/2007
“Thank you, Reverend [Barry] Black, for continuing to guide
our path with the light of the Holy Word, and for your long service to our
nation.
“One hundred and forty two years ago on these grounds,
President Abraham Lincoln delivered his stirring Second Inaugural Address.
“That morning, the skies rained and wind whipped against the
Capitol’s recently completed cast iron dome.
Despite the weather, a tremendous crowd filled the East Front. As one observer noted, African Americans
comprised half their number.
“Many of the audience came in their ‘old clothes’ due to the
inclement weather and the muddy streets of
“That is because, for African Americans,
“Even considering the challenges that remained ahead,
“We also pause to remember the courage of nine African
American students who, on this day 50 years ago, made a powerful statement
through the simple act of entering a schoolhouse door in
“This week, as we approach the annual CBC Legislative
Conference, we celebrate the historic achievements and powerful advocacy of the
Congressional Black Caucus, which remains the conscience of the Congress.
“We are thankful for the leadership of CBC Chair Carolyn
Kilpatrick and CBC Foundation Chair Kendrick Meek, for their commitment to this
organization’s values, and for their focus on the future.
“We are grateful to Majority Whip James Clyburn and Senior
Chief Deputy Whip John Lewis for bringing the CBC’s most deeply held values to
the leadership of the House.
“And we recall the victories made possible by talented
committee leaders like Chairman Charles Rangel of the Ways and Means Committee,
Chairman John Conyers of the Judiciary Committee, Chairman Bennie Thompson of
the Homeland Security Committee, and Chairwoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones of the
Ethics Committee.
“This week, as the Congressional Black Caucus lays the
groundwork for future progress, Leader Reid and I also join you in celebration
of the CBC’s monumental achievements.
“We stand with you as partners in our continued progress
toward a nation that is more respectful, more inclusive, and more true to the
values of the CBC – a nation that is truly a more perfect union.
“Thank you, God bless you, and may