Peters Statement Celebrating Black History Month

DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today released the following statement celebrating Black History Month.

“As communities in Michigan and across the nation commemorate Black History Month, we celebrate the generations of African American leaders whose contributions have helped shape our national story,” said Senator Peters. “From ushering in technological revolutions, to redefining culture, to advancing civil rights, their remarkable achievements have had an immeasurable impact on our state and the entire country…Although there have been significant strides, there is still so much more that needs to be done.”

Click here for video of his remarks and below is the text as prepared for delivery:

“As communities in Michigan and across the nation commemorate Black History Month, we celebrate the generations of African American leaders whose contributions have helped shape our national story. From ushering in technological revolutions, to redefining culture, to advancing civil rights, their remarkable achievements have had an immeasurable impact on our state and the entire country.

“While we celebrate these great leaders of the past, we must also recognize the history being made today. My friend and former Senate colleague Kamala Harris is now the first black woman to serve as Vice President, and Lloyd Austin has become the first black Defense Secretary in our country’s history. We are also finally seeing expedited efforts by the new Administration to place Harriet Tubman on the 20-dollar bill. She continually risked her life so that people like Vice President Harris and Secretary Austin could one day pursue their dreams.

“Although there have been significant strides, there is still so much more that needs to be done. Let us remember the sacrifices and contributions of African Americans not just this month, but throughout the entire year as we all work to build a more inclusive society that lives up to the highest ideals of our nation.”

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