Civil Rights History Project Act of 2009 Signed Into Law
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
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WASHINGTON, DC –House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today joined President Obama at the White House for the signing of H.R. 586, the Civil Rights History Project Act of 2009, which directs the Librarian of Congress and the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution to collect video and audio recordings of personal histories and testimonials of individuals who participated in the Civil Rights movement. Following is Clyburn’s statement.
“Witnessing the President signing this legislation allowed me to reflect upon my experiences during the Civil Rights movement of the 1960’s in the segregated south; from my participation in many marches and demonstrations, to being selected as the star witness in a 1960 Orangeburg civil disobedience case.
“Honoring our history, allows us to remember what should be and should not be repeated. The Civil Rights History Project will preserve the valued memories and experiences of those who fought for equality for current and future generations. The oral and video histories will be available to the public and will be an important resource for students of every age.”
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