On Wednesday, February 14, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan read his Black History Month statement into the Congressional Record on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.
A video of the remarks is available at https://bit.ly/3SVlRdD, and the text of the remarks as prepared for delivery is below.
“It is with great respect and sincere admiration that I rise today to celebrate Black History Month and its 2024 theme – African Americans and the Arts. This year’s theme reflects on the important work of African American artists throughout the country who preserve history, enrich communities, and create empowerment through the visual and performing arts including literature, film, music, fashion, culinary, architecture, and more.
“History has shown that the artistic contributions of African Americans have been minimized, excluded, and even denied. African American artistic movements such as the Black Renaissance, the Black Art Movement, and the introduction of the Hip-Hop music genre, to name a few, have been crucial in bringing about change, equality, and social justice to the African American community in the United States and all over the world.
“Throughout the years, Northwest Indiana has been home to many successful and noteworthy art-based organizations and programs that are truly inspiring. I would like to take a moment to recognize a few of them, past and present, including Vee-Jay Records, West Side Theater Guild, Gary International Black Film Festival, Gary Theatre Ensemble, Marshall J. Gardener Center for the Arts, Glen Theatre, the Morning Bishop Playhouse Theater, the Gary Public Murals and Statues Program, the Miller Beach Arts and Creative District, and the Gary Public Art Competition, among others. For their unwavering dedication to preserving and honoring African Americans and the arts, each organization, program, and its members are worthy of the very highest praise.
“Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in celebrating Black History Month and honoring the countless African Americans who have played such a critical role in enriching our culture through the arts. Let us commend each of them for their profound passion, creativity, and perseverance as they have enhanced the quality of life for all Americans.”
