Brady Leads Effort to Authorize Sojourner Truth Commemoration and Civil Rights History Project

Washington, DC (April 22, 2009):  House Administration Chairman Robert A. Brady yesterday moved through the House a resolution clearing the way to use the Capitol Visitor Center’s Emancipation Hall for the unveiling of a bust commemorating the life of civil rights pioneer and suffrage leader Sojourner Truth.

“Sojourner Truth is one of the lasting icons of the dark days of slavery and an important symbol of the resiliency of the human spirit,” said Brady.  “Sojourner Truth’s lasting legacy has now been recognized in the form of this bust commissioned by Congress.  Her image will grace Emancipation Hall, serving as a reminder of our capacity to change and our willingness to endure, Brady added.”

 The bust unveiling is scheduled for April 28 at 11:00 am.

 Brady also passed through the House H.R. 586, a bill that creates the Civil Rights Oral History Project.  The legislation directs the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian Institution -- through the National Museum of African American History and Culture -- to collaborate and establish an oral history project.  This joint venture will collect and preserve audio and video recordings by participants in the Civil Rights movement.

 “A fundamental principle of our American democracy is that individuals stand up for their rights and beliefs, and pursue justice through peaceful action,” said Brady.  “Many who participated in the Civil Rights movement did so at great personal sacrifice.  Their actions were heroic and tireless, and challenged the practice of racial segregation in the Nation.”

 “Much of this history has never been written down from the perspective of those who were there.  As these pioneers age, it is important that their memories of events are documented so that future generations can witness their testimony regarding the lives and times of that era.  This bill will ensure that the record of this important period of our nation’s history is not lost.”

 Both measures were passed by the House of Representatives.

Kyle Anderson

Press Director

Committee on House Administration

1309 Longworth House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515-6157

(202) 225-2061

Kyle.Anderson@mail.house.gov