New York, NY - Congressman Charles B. Rangel released the following statement to recognize Black History Month, which is celebrated during the month of February:

"I am proud to join millions of people across the nation to celebrate Black History Month. This year’s theme, “At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington,” acknowledges two pivotal impacts on American history.

On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the proclamation to end slavery in the South and to preserve a republic for all people. A century later, hundreds of thousands of people of all backgrounds marched to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., seeking equality for everyone in America. It was also where Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his famous “I Have A Dream” speech which echoes through the nation even until this day. Both events marked the beginning of endless opportunities for minorities serving as foundations for the structure of public organizations of the 21st century.

Fighting for equality is a constant struggle that requires the efforts of all of us in our time. There are many organizations which seek to continue this fight for freedom and equality, such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and its Mid-Manhattan Branch, The National Urban League, Rainbow PUSH Coalition, National Action Network, and many others that are committed to racial justice. In addition, the fraternities and sororities of the National Pan-Hellenic Council have been dedicated to empowerment of African American communities for over 100 years.

As we celebrate the 150th year of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 50th anniversary of the March of Washington, we must keep working towards progress by reducing poverty and encouraging higher education in our communities. I have dedicated my life to promoting equality for all as I continue to remember the racial and social injustices that took place many years ago. I will remain persistent in advocating for progress alongside my fellow Colleagues in Congress. "