Senator Boxer: Celebrating Black History Month    

Friday, February 1, 2013  

Dear Friend:

Every February, Americans celebrate Black History Month and the extraordinary contributions of African-Americans to our nation.

This year’s theme – “At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington” – honors two vital anniversaries: the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington.  

On January 1, 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation set the United States on the path to end slavery.  A century later, on August 28, 1963, hundreds of thousands of Americans of every color and creed marched to the Lincoln Memorial to redeem the Proclamation’s pledge of freedom and the Declaration of Independence’s promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for every American.

These great milestones in our country’s history are an inspiration to us all and a challenge to keep marching forward until every American has equal rights and opportunities – including the right to vote without intimidation or obstruction, the right to equal justice under the law, and full and equal access to health care, education, and employment.

During Black History Month and beyond, I hope you will join me in honoring the memories of the countless African-Americans who have shaped our nation’s past, present, and future.  Their accomplishments are an integral part of American history and should be celebrated and shared – not just this month, but every day of the year.

To read more about this February’s events and African American history, visit the special Library of Congress web page at http://www.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/index.html.

Sincerely,