WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Thad Cochran (R-Miss.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) today introduced a resolution commemorating Black History Month.

S.Res.84 recognizes the contributions African Americans have made in education, politics, arts, sports, literature, science, and technology despite centuries of systemic racial discrimination.

“Black History Month tells an American story etched in the shadows of adversity, marred by sacrifice, and elevated in triumph. Each February we honor the contributions of people who literally bore the foundation of this nation on their backs. Without a doubt the freedoms I enjoy today as an American are a testament to their tenacious pursuit for equality,” said Booker. “From the abolishment of slavery, the fight for civil rights, and now, our efforts to reform the criminal justice system, this resolution is a tribute to the legacy of African Americans and a clarion call to all Americans to continue the fight for liberty and justice.”

“Black History Month provides us with opportunities to not only remember past injustice and celebrate victories over it, but also to commemorate contributions being made today to ensure equality and justice for all Americans.  This rich history and promise for the future carved by African Americans are central to who we are as a nation, and we ought to be proud of it.” Cochran said.

“As Americans it is important for us to recognize the great contributions and achievements of African Americans,” said Gillibrand. “Countless leaders and unsung heroes fought to overcome injustice, risking their lives to secure freedom and equality for all. This tribute honors the sacrifices that have inspired so many who continue this work and will touch lives for generations. I will never forget those values that so many have fought and died for and we must look to them as we work to forge a path to an even better America.”

U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) is an original cosponsor of the resolution.

“February is a special time to celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans throughout our nation’s history,” Wicker said.  “The legacies of these men and women continue to inspire us to fight for freedom and equality.  I am pleased that two of Mississippi’s civil rights leaders, Medgar Evers and Aaron Shirley, are included in this bipartisan measure.”

Other cosponsors include: Sens. Kelly Ayotte R-N.H., Richard Burr R-N.C., Ben Cardin D-Md., Chris Coons D-Del., Richard Durbin D-Ill., Dianne Feinstein D-Calif., Johnny Isakson R-Ga., Jeff Merkley D-Ore., Lisa Murkowski R-Alaska, Chris Murphy D-Conn., Patty Murray D-Wash., Rand Paul R-Ky., Rob Portman R-Ohio, Debbie Stabenow D-Mich., and Thom Tillis R-N.C.

The resolution can be viewed here:  http://1.usa.gov/1AHjhs1.