WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate late Monday approved a bipartisan resolution cosponsored by Mississippi Senators Roger Wicker and Thad Cochran to commemorate Black History Month.

S.Res.69 recognizes the contributions of African Americans to the development of the nation, particularly in the areas of education, politics, arts, sports, literature, science, and technology. Approved by unanimous consent, the legislation’s primary sponsors are Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Cochran. Wicker is original cosponsor of the measure.

“This resolution highlights the countless ways that African Americans have shaped U.S. history since its founding,” Wicker said. “A number of notable Mississippians are among the pioneers, leaders, and luminaries that are recognized. I am pleased that Congress has continued the tradition of celebrating Black History Month and the extraordinary heritage it honors. I am delighted that Jackson will be home to the first state-sponsored civil rights museum in the country, set to open later this year.”

“This resolution represents Senate commemoration of the significant contributions of African Americans to the growth of our nation. We honor not only past history, but the great expectation of future achievements that will make the United States stronger,” Cochran said. “I commend the Mississippians who have played important roles in enriching our nation and our state through their bravery, creativity and sheer willpower.”

Medgar Evers, B.B. King, Aaron Shirley, Walter Payton, Blanche Bruce, Holt Collier, and Hiram Revels are among the notable African Americans from Mississippi who are cited in the resolution.

The Black History Month resolution states in part that “all people of the United States are the recipients of the wealth of history provided by Black culture” and that the Senate “recognizes the importance of Black History Month as an opportunity to reflect on the complex history of the United States, while remaining hopeful and confident about the path ahead.”

S.Res.69 is available here: http://bit.ly/2lQkNZ1