McCollum Statement on Black History Month 2024

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) released the following statement commemorating Black History Month:

“Every February we commemorate Black History Month to celebrate and honor the history, stories, and contributions of Black Americans who are essential to the diverse tapestry of our nation. Black history is American history, and as we honor the legacies and achievements of generations past, we also must address injustices that continue to cause harm, and we must work together intentionally to end systemic racism.

“Our work to repair injustice cannot fully move forward without recognizing the milestones of progress that we’ve achieved. This July will mark the 60th anniversary of the passage of the Civil Rights Act, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. This landmark legislation represents remarkable progress in the march toward equality, banning discrimination in public settings, integrating public schools, and making racial employment discrimination illegal. But our democracy is only as strong as its people, and we must protect the progress we have made from efforts to undermine equity and access—voter restrictions, weakened election laws, political gridlock that is fueled by racial gerrymandering, and so on. Last Congress I voted for the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, and I continue to support efforts to pass it into law so that we protect access to the ballot box and defend the right to vote in free and fair elections.  The work goes on to ensure that all Americans can shape our nation's future.

“In Congress, we have a responsibility to address racial disparities in health care, education, job opportunities, housing, voting rights, environmental justice, and especially in policing. Since 2020, I have twice voted for the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to increase accountability for law enforcement. These reforms would finally make strides toward ending police brutality, which falls disproportionately on the shoulders of Black Americans. We must find ways to improve the relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. We cannot and must not give up on much-needed police reforms on a federal level—justice demands it.

“The fight for justice continues through the work of Black leaders and allies, organizers, and advocates championing equality, opportunity, and justice for all. I invite all Minnesotans to join me in reflecting on Black History Month and recommitting to creating a better future for all of our neighbors. I look forward to continuing the conversation throughout the month, including with historic Rondo neighborhood community leaders on the history, stories, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead in revitalizing this vibrant community.”

Background:

As our community gathers to commemorate Black History Month, Congresswoman McCollum is inspired by several recent stories about local leaders doing important work to celebrate and advance the work of African Americans in the Fourth District:

• From St. Paul to Selma, Rondo neighborhood's Debbie Montgomery earned her place in history
• Meet the woman who preserves and catalogs St. Paul's Rondo memories
• Teens develop "Voices of Rondo" podcast to tell neighborhood's history

Additional Resources:

• Visit blackhistorymonth.gov where the Library of Congress, National Archives, and more have joined forces to pay tribute to generations of African Americans
• Learn from the Minnesota Historical Society’s “Black History, Black Voices” compilation

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