Democratic National Committee Chairman Tim Kaine and Black Caucus Chairwoman Virgie Rollins Release Statements in Honor of Black History Month

WASHINGTON, Feb. 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chairman Tim Kaine and DNC Black Caucus Chairwoman Virgie Rollins issued the following statements in recognition of Black History Month:

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080519/DNCLOGO)

DNC Chairman Tim Kaine:

"Today we begin our celebration of Black History Month, a month where our country sets aside time to honor African Americans and their contributions to the fabric of American life and culture. We must not forget how far our country has come within such a short amount of time. Less than 60 years ago African Americans were relegated to segregated bathrooms and second-class citizenship by force of law. Now African Americans are an integral part of and participate in the leadership ranks of our most esteemed private and public sector institutions.

"Last year, our nation swore in its first African American president. President Obama's election is a significant moment in U.S. history -- a moment that all Americans can be proud of and a sign of how far our country has come.

"Our success as a nation would be incomplete without the contributions of African American pioneers such as Fredrick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, W.E.B. Dubois, Howard Thurman, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Dr. Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, Justice Thurgood Marshall, Governor Douglas Wilder, and many others too numerous to mention. As a result of their leadership and tireless efforts America is a stronger nation. All Americans, regardless of race, creed or color have benefited from their accomplishments.

"Of course, there is more to do. Inequalities in many aspects of American life -- including education, health care, housing, and more -- still disproportionately affect African Americans. The Democratic Party is committed to making sure that all Americans have the opportunities and resources they need to succeed, are treated fairly, and are given the respect they deserve.

"On behalf of the Democratic Party, I thank all of those who spent their lives fighting for equality, and encourage all of us to recommit ourselves to the march for civil and equal rights."

DNC Black Caucus Chairwoman Virgie Rollins:

"We celebrate the beginning of Black History Month reflecting on African American achievements. Nearly forty-five years after the passage of the Voting Rights Act, the Democratic Party continues to be at the forefront of ensuring social and economic justice for every American, and promoting the richness of diversity in our nation.

"We made history electing our first African American President. Our Party will continue its commitment to ensuring that African Americans have the same opportunities as our fellow Americans in realizing the American Dream.

"We also continue to pray and support our sisters and brothers and their families in Haiti."

SOURCE Democratic National Committee

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