Jonathan L. Jackson
Representative for Illinois · Democratic · United States
“His legacy reminds us that freedom is incomplete if it cannot produce opportunity. It reminds us that equality is unfinished if it cannot nurture enterprise, and justice remains unfinished if the gifts of a people are ignored.”
“His legacy reminds us that freedom is incomplete if it cannot produce opportunity. It reminds us that equality is unfinished if it cannot nurture enterprise, and justice remains unfinished if the gifts of a people are ignored.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Page H4531] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING GEORGE E. JOHNSON (Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Page H4531] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING GEORGE E. JOHNSON (Mr.”
“He challenged a culture that had spent centuries teaching Black men and women to doubt the beauty that they saw in the mirror. Every bottle that left his factory carried more than a product.”
“He challenged a culture that had spent centuries teaching Black men and women to doubt the beauty that they saw in the mirror. Every bottle that left his factory carried more than a product.”
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“His legacy reminds us that freedom is incomplete if it cannot produce opportunity. It reminds us that equality is unfinished if it cannot nurture enterprise, and justice remains unfinished if the gifts of a people are ignored. Today, we honor not simply a businessman but a visionary who helped America become more fully itself by insisting that Black genius belonged not on the margins of its history but at its very center core. Mr. Speaker, may we remember George E. Johnson not only for what he sold but for what he restored: confidence, possibility, and pride. May his life continue to remind every child who dares to dream that the greatest investment one can ever make is in the limitless potential of one's own people. To a beloved friend and an outstanding American, I love you, and I honor you, the honorable George E. Johnson.”
“He challenged a culture that had spent centuries teaching Black men and women to doubt the beauty that they saw in the mirror. Every bottle that left his factory carried more than a product. It carried a declaration that Black enterprise could flourish and that Black excellence could employ thousands, inspire generations, and transform neighborhoods. His success was not measured merely in dollars, but in dignity. He proved that ownership is more than economics. It is self-determination. George Johnson, a beloved family friend, invested not only in hair care, but in human care. He invested in communities, education, churches, and young dreamers who needed someone to believe that greatness could look like them. He understood that wealth finds its highest purpose when it creates opportunities for others.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Page H4531] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING GEORGE E. JOHNSON (Mr. JACKSON of Illinois asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, there are some people who build companies, and there are others who build confidence. George E. Johnson did both. He understood something this Nation too often refused to see--that Black people did not need permission to be beautiful, brilliant, or prosperous. We simply needed the opportunity to define ourselves. Through Afro Sheen, he did more than create a successful business.”
“His legacy reminds us that freedom is incomplete if it cannot produce opportunity. It reminds us that equality is unfinished if it cannot nurture enterprise, and justice remains unfinished if the gifts of a people are ignored. Today, we honor not simply a businessman but a visionary who helped America become more fully itself by insisting that Black genius belonged not on the margins of its history but at its very center core. Mr. Speaker, may we remember George E. Johnson not only for what he sold but for what he restored: confidence, possibility, and pride. May his life continue to remind every child who dares to dream that the greatest investment one can ever make is in the limitless potential of one's own people. To a beloved friend and an outstanding American, I love you, and I honor you, the honorable George E. Johnson.”
“He challenged a culture that had spent centuries teaching Black men and women to doubt the beauty that they saw in the mirror. Every bottle that left his factory carried more than a product. It carried a declaration that Black enterprise could flourish and that Black excellence could employ thousands, inspire generations, and transform neighborhoods. His success was not measured merely in dollars, but in dignity. He proved that ownership is more than economics. It is self-determination. George Johnson, a beloved family friend, invested not only in hair care, but in human care. He invested in communities, education, churches, and young dreamers who needed someone to believe that greatness could look like them. He understood that wealth finds its highest purpose when it creates opportunities for others.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [House] [Page H4531] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING GEORGE E. JOHNSON (Mr. JACKSON of Illinois asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, there are some people who build companies, and there are others who build confidence. George E. Johnson did both. He understood something this Nation too often refused to see--that Black people did not need permission to be beautiful, brilliant, or prosperous. We simply needed the opportunity to define ourselves. Through Afro Sheen, he did more than create a successful business.”
“Her kind spirit will live on in the lives of those she touched, and we will not soon forget her incredible deeds and generosity. I thank Mrs. Elon Louise Williams, for her years of unwavering service. May she rest in peace. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the life of Mrs. Elon Louise Williams. [[Page E372]] ____________________”
“Her commitment to her work and the genuine care she had for her community earned her numerous commendations from both her colleagues and her community. Mrs. Williams's positive influence extended throughout her community. She was known for her generosity, always ready to offer a helping hand or a word of encouragement. She made a difference in countless lives, often in deeply meaningful ways. Beyond her career, Mrs. Williams was the cornerstone of her family. She provided unwavering love, support and guidance, shaping the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her wisdom and kindness created a lasting impact that will be felt for generations. While we mourn her passing, we take solace in knowing her legacy will extend far beyond her years on earth.”
“Williams was a woman of strength and devotion. She shared over 60 years of life and love with her beloved husband, the late Sylvester E. Williams, whom she married on January 6, 1950. Together, they raised four children: Alan Williams, Dale Williams, Vera Williams and Janet Williams, all who attended college. Their family was built on love and mutual respect. For over three decades, Mrs. Williams faithfully served her community as a mail sorter for the United States Postal Service. She often worked long hours diligently ensuring our local postal operations ran smoothly. She was more than a mail sorter, however. With her consistent presence and friendly nature, she was a source of connection for those in her community.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E371-E372] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ELON LOUISE WILLIAMS ______ HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON of illinois in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Elon Louise Williams, a woman whose dedication to her family and community left an enduring legacy. Mrs. Williams was born on July 14, 1930, to Melvina and Hayden Owens. She had one brother, Yeoman Owens, who preceded her in death. She lived in Harvey, Illinois and was from Milton, Florida. Mrs.”
“KOCO's historic legacy, its transformative impact on the lives of countless individuals and families, and its enduring role as a beacon of hope and liberation for the City of Chicago and the Nation will continue to inspire our community to great acts of service. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the 60th anniversary of KOCO. ____________________”
“KOCO's advocacy has aided in the reopening of the University of Chicago's adult trauma center and secured the landmark Community Benefits Agreement that proactively prevents the displacement of long- term residents surrounding the Obama Presidential Center. Additionally, KOCO launched transformative initiatives such as GirlsLead, the Bronzeville Restorative Justice Hub, and the Silver Fox Cafe, each centering on healing the community and fostering economic development in the Black community. Under the dedicated and visionary leadership of Executive Director Shannon Bennett, KOCO continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact while remaining grounded in its core mission: to empower new generations of Black leaders who will continue the vital [[Page E368]] work of advancing opportunity, liberty, and justice for all.”
“It has made significant strides through impactful campaigns that have expanded access to affordable housing, ensured equitable education opportunities, advanced youth leadership development, championed the rights and well-being of senior citizens and vigorously fought for healthcare access and environmental justice. KOCO's dedication to their mission has achieved historic victories, leaving behind an indelible mark on the community. This includes the construction of King High School, the establishment of over 400 units for those that needed affordable housing, founding a vital community medical clinic, as well as establishing a national precedent through the successful reopening of Dyett High School, which followed a courageous 34-day hunger strike.”
“The Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, otherwise known as KOCO, was founded in 1965 by visionary community and religious leaders. It stands as one of the oldest Black-led, membership-based grassroots community organizations in Chicago. KOCO has served as a vital force for justice, dignity and transformation, steadfastly uplifting low- income and working African American families in the Kenwood-Oakland and broader Bronzeville communities. KOCO's enduring mission is to cultivate multi-generational leadership and effect meaningful change in public policy.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E367-E368] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE KENWOOD OAKLAND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION ______ HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON of illinois in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the remarkable 60th Anniversary of the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization (KOCO), a cornerstone of community empowerment and a beacon of hope in the 1st Congressional District of Illinois and the City of Chicago.”
“She instilled a passion for learning in her students, serving as a mentor to her colleagues and providing creative boards throughout the school. Mrs. Kenerson retired after 30 vears of service. In 1963, she entered in Holy matrimony with John Dubois Kenerson, a man of enterprise and community. Mr. Kenerson was the standing President of Standard Burial Insurance Company, founded in 1952. Mr. Kenerson built a famijy of businesses that included the William Ray Funeral Home with his sister Eunise Smith and Mr. Hodges. That funeral home is now operated by their nephew and niece, William and Annie Ray. Together, they raised two children: Carolyn Austin and Rowland Austin. Their legacy lives on through their children. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the life of Mrs. Mildred ``Mama K'' Austen Kenerson.”
“There, they united families such as the Perkins, Bridges and the Dents. For years, Mrs. Kenerson and her sister-in-law, the late Doris Wilson Perkins poured countless hours of dedication into the preparations for St. John Baptist Church's cherished annual events, fostering years of unity and fellowship. Mrs. Kenerson's life stands as a testament to the power of faith, the strength of community and the enduring bonds of family. Her devotion to St. John Baptist Church and her unwavering spirit will long be remembered. Mrs. Kenerson was an employee of the Chicago Public Schools; she worked at the Daniel Webster Elementary School from 1969 to 1999, where she was a teacher, a tutor, a parent liaison, and provided support to staff and the Reading Lab.”
“She was the second child to the late Eddie Lee Perkins and Idella Harper Perkins, who raised seven children in total. Mrs. Kenerson was educated in Rosenwald School for Children and attended the historic Piney Wood Country Life School. As she continued to pursue higher education, Mrs. Kenerson attended Jackson State Teacher's College, now known as Jackson State University. At 19 vears old she obtained her Teaching Certificate to educate the children at Dry Ridge and D'Lo Colored Schools in segregated Simpson County. From her earliest years, Mrs. Kenerson embraced the teachings of Christ and remained a devoted member of St. John Baptist Church, an institution with roots stretching back to 1865. She was a vital part of the St. John community, evidenced by her pivotal role in the inaugural Church Homecoming Program on May 30, 1982.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E363] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MILDRED ``MAMA K'' AUSTEN KENERSON ______ HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON of illinois in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Mildred ``Mama K'' Austen Kenerson, a woman who graced this world for an incredible 105 years. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy of resilience and compassion continues to inspire future generations. Mrs. Kenerson was born on April 19, 1919, in Braxton Mississippi.”
“Her kind spirit will live on in the lives of those she touched, and we will not soon forget her incredible deeds and generosity. I thank Mrs. Elon Louise Williams, for her years of unwavering service. May she rest in peace. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the life of Mrs. Elon Louise Williams. [[Page E372]] ____________________”
“Her commitment to her work and the genuine care she had for her community earned her numerous commendations from both her colleagues and her community. Mrs. Williams's positive influence extended throughout her community. She was known for her generosity, always ready to offer a helping hand or a word of encouragement. She made a difference in countless lives, often in deeply meaningful ways. Beyond her career, Mrs. Williams was the cornerstone of her family. She provided unwavering love, support and guidance, shaping the lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her wisdom and kindness created a lasting impact that will be felt for generations. While we mourn her passing, we take solace in knowing her legacy will extend far beyond her years on earth.”
“Williams was a woman of strength and devotion. She shared over 60 years of life and love with her beloved husband, the late Sylvester E. Williams, whom she married on January 6, 1950. Together, they raised four children: Alan Williams, Dale Williams, Vera Williams and Janet Williams, all who attended college. Their family was built on love and mutual respect. For over three decades, Mrs. Williams faithfully served her community as a mail sorter for the United States Postal Service. She often worked long hours diligently ensuring our local postal operations ran smoothly. She was more than a mail sorter, however. With her consistent presence and friendly nature, she was a source of connection for those in her community.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E371-E372] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ELON LOUISE WILLIAMS ______ HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON of illinois in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Elon Louise Williams, a woman whose dedication to her family and community left an enduring legacy. Mrs. Williams was born on July 14, 1930, to Melvina and Hayden Owens. She had one brother, Yeoman Owens, who preceded her in death. She lived in Harvey, Illinois and was from Milton, Florida. Mrs.”
“KOCO's historic legacy, its transformative impact on the lives of countless individuals and families, and its enduring role as a beacon of hope and liberation for the City of Chicago and the Nation will continue to inspire our community to great acts of service. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the 60th anniversary of KOCO. ____________________”
“KOCO's advocacy has aided in the reopening of the University of Chicago's adult trauma center and secured the landmark Community Benefits Agreement that proactively prevents the displacement of long- term residents surrounding the Obama Presidential Center. Additionally, KOCO launched transformative initiatives such as GirlsLead, the Bronzeville Restorative Justice Hub, and the Silver Fox Cafe, each centering on healing the community and fostering economic development in the Black community. Under the dedicated and visionary leadership of Executive Director Shannon Bennett, KOCO continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact while remaining grounded in its core mission: to empower new generations of Black leaders who will continue the vital [[Page E368]] work of advancing opportunity, liberty, and justice for all.”
“It has made significant strides through impactful campaigns that have expanded access to affordable housing, ensured equitable education opportunities, advanced youth leadership development, championed the rights and well-being of senior citizens and vigorously fought for healthcare access and environmental justice. KOCO's dedication to their mission has achieved historic victories, leaving behind an indelible mark on the community. This includes the construction of King High School, the establishment of over 400 units for those that needed affordable housing, founding a vital community medical clinic, as well as establishing a national precedent through the successful reopening of Dyett High School, which followed a courageous 34-day hunger strike.”
“The Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, otherwise known as KOCO, was founded in 1965 by visionary community and religious leaders. It stands as one of the oldest Black-led, membership-based grassroots community organizations in Chicago. KOCO has served as a vital force for justice, dignity and transformation, steadfastly uplifting low- income and working African American families in the Kenwood-Oakland and broader Bronzeville communities. KOCO's enduring mission is to cultivate multi-generational leadership and effect meaningful change in public policy.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E367-E368] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE KENWOOD OAKLAND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION ______ HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON of illinois in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the remarkable 60th Anniversary of the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization (KOCO), a cornerstone of community empowerment and a beacon of hope in the 1st Congressional District of Illinois and the City of Chicago.”
“She instilled a passion for learning in her students, serving as a mentor to her colleagues and providing creative boards throughout the school. Mrs. Kenerson retired after 30 vears of service. In 1963, she entered in Holy matrimony with John Dubois Kenerson, a man of enterprise and community. Mr. Kenerson was the standing President of Standard Burial Insurance Company, founded in 1952. Mr. Kenerson built a famijy of businesses that included the William Ray Funeral Home with his sister Eunise Smith and Mr. Hodges. That funeral home is now operated by their nephew and niece, William and Annie Ray. Together, they raised two children: Carolyn Austin and Rowland Austin. Their legacy lives on through their children. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the life of Mrs. Mildred ``Mama K'' Austen Kenerson.”
“There, they united families such as the Perkins, Bridges and the Dents. For years, Mrs. Kenerson and her sister-in-law, the late Doris Wilson Perkins poured countless hours of dedication into the preparations for St. John Baptist Church's cherished annual events, fostering years of unity and fellowship. Mrs. Kenerson's life stands as a testament to the power of faith, the strength of community and the enduring bonds of family. Her devotion to St. John Baptist Church and her unwavering spirit will long be remembered. Mrs. Kenerson was an employee of the Chicago Public Schools; she worked at the Daniel Webster Elementary School from 1969 to 1999, where she was a teacher, a tutor, a parent liaison, and provided support to staff and the Reading Lab.”
“She was the second child to the late Eddie Lee Perkins and Idella Harper Perkins, who raised seven children in total. Mrs. Kenerson was educated in Rosenwald School for Children and attended the historic Piney Wood Country Life School. As she continued to pursue higher education, Mrs. Kenerson attended Jackson State Teacher's College, now known as Jackson State University. At 19 vears old she obtained her Teaching Certificate to educate the children at Dry Ridge and D'Lo Colored Schools in segregated Simpson County. From her earliest years, Mrs. Kenerson embraced the teachings of Christ and remained a devoted member of St. John Baptist Church, an institution with roots stretching back to 1865. She was a vital part of the St. John community, evidenced by her pivotal role in the inaugural Church Homecoming Program on May 30, 1982.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E363] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MILDRED ``MAMA K'' AUSTEN KENERSON ______ HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON of illinois in the house of representatives Wednesday, April 30, 2025 Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Mildred ``Mama K'' Austen Kenerson, a woman who graced this world for an incredible 105 years. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy of resilience and compassion continues to inspire future generations. Mrs. Kenerson was born on April 19, 1919, in Braxton Mississippi.”
“Do not live in fear of the President primarying you. Do not live in fear of the President taking words out of your mouth. You can be a major law firm. Don't lose the ink in your pen because you have fear. You can be a major university. Don't give up your academic freedom because of fear. You have a major corporation. You have the right to align yourself with the interests of your shareholders and the interests of your future marketplace. Hold on to the DEI. Members of this body, as coequal branches of government and the United States, fundamentally disagree with President Donald J. Trump. Mr. Speaker, I want Mr. Pete Hegseth to know that diversity is legal in the United States military. Colin Powell was an affirmative action general. We should tell the truth about it. He came through under the Carter administration. Mr.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Fields for the privilege of standing here beside him. I thank him for his commitment to justice, for his commitment to the American way, and I thank him for making America better. His case right now before the United States Supreme Court, Louisiana v. Callais, is taking into account, once again, the maxim of equal protection under the law. We want to make sure that America stays strong and America gets better. I tell those that say ``Make America Great Again,'' I tell them that this is the greatest America has ever been. This body now has more female Senators, has more people of ethnicities, more diversity, and I am proud of the culture that this great country has. I hope other people would step forward to find the courage to come and join us on this floor so we can have a conversation.”
“And it was 346 years from 1619 to 1965 before the Voting Rights Act was even passed. Then the 15th Amendment came around to make sure that everyone had equal access to the ballot, and that wasn't fully enacted until 1965. Yes, this has been a long journey and we cannot be cowards and not confront the history and the truth of our past.”
“Mr. Speaker, if I could jump in on that for just a moment. These are voluntary programs. These are aspirational programs, as you have shared with me. There is no DEI law. No DEI law has been passed by the Congress. How can you outlaw something that never was a law? When we go into the Senate, just at the other end of this Chamber, you see ``E Pluribus unum'' over the Speaker, which means ``out of many, one.'' That is the call for diversity. When we talk about equality in the 14th Amendment, equal protection under the law, we only had that once the Nation could confront its history and tell the truth. We wouldn't have had to have the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery, and the 14th Amendment that was meant for equal protection for those Americans that had been enslaved for 246 years from 1619 to 1865.”
“There are six military bases that have some of these Confederate generals on there, but then you take down the names of Medgar Evers and Harriet Tubman? That is shameful and hypocritical. Diversity makes the Nation stronger. Being committed to truth and justice about our paths only serves as a benefit. It doesn't take anything away. The false narrative that people are unqualified simply is not true. We know from these Halls of Congress right here that people whose parents have been here before can teach their children how to run for office, how to raise the funds, and you will see children of those that have been in power following in that tradition. We are talking about creating an on-ramp for greater inclusiveness, for greater cohesion amongst the troops.”
“Speaker, Members can read the entirety of the amicus brief at the following link: https://www.harvard.edu/admissionscase/wp-content/ uploads/sites/6/2022/08/Amicus-Brief-Military-Brief72.pdf . When they say they are anti-DEI and then they take down the statues and remove the gravestones of Jackie Robinson, that does not help with military cohesion. If there is one of our colleagues that is watching us in the Chamber, we invite you down so we can have a debate, a discussion on DEI and stop the polarization and racializing this. They find it okay. Mr. Pete Hegseth finds it okay to resurrect the name of Ku Klux Klansman General Bragg, Fort Bragg, but yet you take down the name of Jackie Robinson. And you are not done with improper ideology? Then you resurrect the names of so many others.”
“national security imperative.'' We had discussed this at one point. Further on, they go on to say: ``The U.S. military's commitment to diverse and inclusive leadership derives from decades of experience.'' This is exponential. ``The U.S. military's international presence and engagement abroad with foreign military and civilians requires diversity in this officers corps.'' In part C, they say: ``U.S. military diversity initiatives have led to significant progress in growing a highly qualified and racially diverse officer corps, but this work must continue. ``Invalidating universities' modest race-conscious admissions policies would seriously impair the military's efforts to maintain cohesion and effectiveness.'' Mr.”
“Mr. Speaker, I find it interesting when we started this conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion, I invited some of my other colleagues to participate. One person asked me: Is it legal for you to discuss DEI, diversity, equity, and inclusion? As coequal branches of government, we do not work for the DOGE. We do not work for the Presidency. We fundamentally disagree with the way the Nation is going under the Presidency. Mr. Pete Hegseth, our Secretary of Defense, needs to understand, if he would take the time to read it, that diversity is legal according to the United States Supreme Court in the Students for Fair Admissions. Mr. Speaker, the generals that have written the amicus brief said: ``Growing and maintaining a highly qualified, diverse officer corps remains a U.S.”
“These policies contribute to a culture of exclusion, a culture that denies the very existence of our humanity as a people, and by extension, the humanity of all people.”
“These bans are not merely an affront to academic freedom; they are an assault on Black identity and an attempt to stifle the critical conversations necessary for a truly inclusive society. Moreover, the policies that aim to ban discussions of race and racism in the classroom directly undermine the very spirit of education. It is no secret that Black students--especially those attending public schools in underserved communities--are already facing systemic barriers to educational opportunities. When DEI programs are eliminated, when history is whitewashed, and when Black experiences are rendered invisible, the message sent to our children is clear: Your history, your experience, and your potential does not matter.”
“To say nothing of the fact that ensuring the right of young people to be in leadership is what diversity and inclusion is all about. The move to get rid of these policies is not theoretical; they are real. They are felt and they have consequences. Take, for example, the recent span of book bans across the Nation, particularly those targeting African-American authors, targeting our history, and targeting our lived experiences. Books like ``The Hate U Give'' by Angie Thomas, ``Beloved'' by Toni Morrison, ``Between the World and Me'' by Ta-Nehisi Coates have been removed from classrooms and libraries not because of their literary merit but because of the discomfort they cause to those who wish to ignore the brutal realities of race in America.”
“While it is true that the Black community created the pathway that led to greater diversity in America, the reality is that Black people are not the only community that benefits from it. Women are a part of DEI. Veterans are a part of DEI. People with different abilities are a part of DEI. American workers are a part of DEI. Even women and families that need IVF, in vitro fertilization to build strong American families, are all communities that benefit from DEI initiatives. Here is a news flash: Diversity does not mean Black. Diversity can mean making sure people who use wheelchairs are not discriminated against and get equal consideration for housing and employment opportunities. It can mean making sure that senior citizens have the same protection as young people.”
“It is no accident that this movement to undermine DEI coincides with the resurgence of racism and hatred, and this rhetoric and these policies are un-American. These policies also coincide with the banning of books. I ask, when does a society move forward banning books? When we talk about restraining freedoms on women's bodies, when has that ever been good for society? {time} 1945 We talk about xenophobia when most people in this country have come from other lands. It is as if society has never moved forward. It is not a coincidence when I tell you, under the guise of fairness and colorblindness, these policies have disproportionately harmed the African American and the marginalized communities all while maintaining a status quo that favors the privileged few.”
“This rhetoric is dangerous because it fundamentally misrepresents the mission of DEI and, in doing so, misrepresents the broadest civil rights movement that has shaped this Nation. It was, after all, the civil rights movement that won the battles to dismantle segregation, that fought for voting rights, and that created the foundation of a more inclusive society. The very principles of DEI stem from these victories. [[Page H1723]] When we attack diversity, equity, and inclusion, we erode the gains made through blood, sweat, and tears from the marches in Selma to the legislative victories in the sixties, seventies, eighties, nineties, and beyond. To push to eliminate DEI policies is a dangerous step backward in this ongoing fight for justice and equality.”
“When President Trump and his allies launched their attacks on DEI, they were not merely engaging in political rhetoric. They were dismantling policies designed to correct historical inequities and promote a more just and inclusive society. These efforts, cloaked in the language of ``merit'' and ``individual responsibility,'' are, in fact, a thinly veiled attempt to perpetuate a system that continues to privilege a select few while marginalizing the very communities that have fought the hardest for their rightful place in the American story. The deep scars of racism and inequality are not erased by wishful thinking or by policies that deny their existence. The attack on DEI is an attack on civil rights, the idea of an egalitarian democracy, and the constitutional ideals that undergird the very idea of America.”
“More profoundly, these attacks are not merely political, but they represent a direct assault on civil rights. Specifically, they started by targeting African Americans, and they threaten to undo the hard- fought progress that has been made over generations. DEI, at its core, is not just a set of policies but an embodiment of American values, values that ensure every citizen, regardless of race, gender, or background, has the opportunity to thrive. It reflects the notion that our strength as a nation lies in our diversity, that our success is drawn from the breadth of our collective experiences, and that our unity can be found not in the erasure of differences but in the celebration of them. Today, this fundamental belief is under siege.”
“To hide history is cowardice, I would say. To erase it is cruelty. America must choose neither because when we forget what we were, we forfeit the right to know who we are. Mr. Speaker, we are addressing the issue today of diversity, equity, and inclusion. I would like to speak on this matter because it is an urgent matter, one that touches the very soul of our Nation's promise and its founding ideals of equality, justice, and the pursuit of liberty. We are at a crossroads, a critical juncture where the direction we choose will define the future of this Nation. I speak today about the persistent and harmful attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and how these attacks, particularly under the leadership of the President of the United States, are undermining the values upon which this Nation was built.”
“It forbids remembering. These 885 women who put together 17 million pieces of mail that kept the morale of our troops high were given no recognition until today, after 80 years. I thank Speaker Johnson and Leader Thune for their contribution. When we talk about erasure, ask the descendants of Tulsa's Greenwood District, who for decades lived with silence where there should have been national mourning, and ask the generations denied their roots by a system that said their past wasn't worth recording. We see it now in the battles over school curriculum, in sanitized histories where the enslaved become mere workers and civil rights are a footnote to a fabled color-blind dream. When we allow erasure to masquerade as reform, we not only assault those who live the truth but endanger the consciousness of a nation already prone to moral amnesia.”