H2740 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 2010 my colleague here today, MICHAEL BUR- Most people with MS learn to cope. lives; and among them, so important, GESS. He has been a good partner in They learn to cope with the disease and are those who are afflicted with mul- promoting this. The MS Caucus is a bi- to lead satisfactory, productive lives, tiple sclerosis. That is surely what we partisan group of a 127 Members of this but they do want answers. We recently can do on their behalf as we look for- House actively engaged in discussions capped off MS Week 2010 on March 8–14, ward to possibilities, as new discov- about access to quality health care, and now prepare for World MS Day on eries are made, and much more re- raising awareness, promoting edu- May 26. search can be done in this arena. cation, and increasing MS research. I Texas, my home State, is getting So our resolution can bring all of want to urge my colleagues here today into the act with the BP MS 150, which that to fruition. I encourage all of our to not just support this resolution, but is a 180-mile journey from Houston to colleagues to honor and vote for House if you’re not already a member of the Austin. This event is a 2-day fund- Resolution 1116, supporting the goals MS Caucus, I urge you to join us. I urge raising cycling ride organized by the and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Aware- you to connect with your local chap- Lone Star Chapter of the National Mul- ness Week. ters to help support the people that are tiple Sclerosis Society. That is the I yield back my time. living and suffering with MS, but also largest event of its kind in north The SPEAKER pro tempore. The to help find that cure, to move re- Texas. This year’s ride just took place question is on the motion offered by search forward. this past weekend. In 2009, this event the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. This year marks the fifth annual MS raised more than $17 million for re- CAPPS) that the House suspend the Awareness Week. The week was created search for MS, and the fundraising goal rules and agree to the resolution, H. by the MS Coalition and the National for this year is $18 million, with con- Res. 1116. MS Society to raise national awareness tributions still being tallied. But the The question was taken; and (two- about MS. I especially want to thank Lone Star Chapter of the National MS thirds being in the affirmative) the St. Louis’ Gateway Chapter of the Na- Society is on its way to reaching this rules were suspended and the resolu- tional MS Society for their unwavering ambitious goal. And this was the 5th tion was agreed to. dedication, for their help for people year of MS Awareness Week. A motion to reconsider was laid on back in my home city, and for their The Multiple Sclerosis Caucus is a bi- the table. support of my work here in the Con- partisan group of 127 Representatives f gress. I’m grateful for their hard work and 23 Senators who are in full support to provide support and assistance for CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF DR. of this resolution. But we can do more. DOROTHY IRENE HEIGHT those living with and affected by MS. In fact, we will be looking to have an This spring, in fact, more than 8,000 MS briefing for Members and their Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I Missourians took part in the Walk MS staff sometime in June, and I hope move to suspend the rules and agree to event across the State, raising aware- many Members will be able to attend. the resolution (H. Res. 1281) celebrating ness and funds to help those living with And, in addition, I urge everyone who the life and achievements of Dr. Doro- MS every day, for the challenges they supports this resolution to cosponsor thy Irene Height and recognizing her face from this disease. H.R. 1362, to create a National MS Reg- lifelong dedication and leadership in Today, I want to again urge my col- istry. This bill has over 150 cosponsors, the struggle for human rights and leagues to support this resolution to and I urge my colleagues on the Energy equality for all people until her death help create a world free of MS. and Commerce Committee to take up at age 98 on April 20, 2010. Mr. BURGESS. I will yield myself my this resolution because it is an impor- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- remaining time. tion. I want to thank Representative tant amount of work that needs to be done. And with all of the focus now- The text of the resolution is as fol- CARNAHAN for the recognition and echo lows: his call to other Members of this Con- adays on genomic medicine, this reg- H. RES. 1281 gress to join the MS Caucus. This cau- istry is going to become increasingly cus does real work. We provide infor- important. Whereas Dr. Dorothy Irene Height was a humanitarian whose life exemplified her pas- mation. We provide conference calls. I yield back the remainder of my time. sionate commitment to a just society and We provide educational time with ei- civil rights for all people; ther Members or staff, and it is a Mrs. CAPPS. Madam Speaker, as we conclude this discussion on the impor- Whereas Dr. Height was the godmother of worthwhile endeavor. the civil rights movement and tireless advo- While there is no cure for multiple tance of being aware of multiple scle- cate of equality for women and women’s sclerosis as it stands today, the treat- rosis and adoption of this resolution, I rights in the United States; ment has evolved significantly. In my will call attention to my colleagues all Whereas Dr. Height led many national or- 25 years of medical practice, I saw a of our local chapters throughout the ganizations, including 33 years of service on significant evolution. Although I was country. the staff of the National Board of the Young not the primary caregiver for multiple Our colleagues have highlighted Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), di- some of the chapters they represent, rector of the National YWCA School for Pro- sclerosis patients in my general OB– fessional Workers, and became the first di- GYN practice, I did have many patients and I know I’ve had wonderful inter- actions with the Members and people rector of the Center for Racial Justice, who did suffer from that illness and, as served as president of the National Council a consequence, over the course of my who support our local chapter in my of Negro Women (NCNW) for 4 decades, as professional lifetime, did see the treat- district as they seek to raise awareness president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, In- ment evolve from one that was essen- within our local communities and also corporated during two consecutive terms, tially palliative to one that was more work together to raise funds through and continued to provide guidance as chair targeted towards the disease itself or their walks and through their fund- and president emerita of NCNW until her targeted towards the damages the dis- raising drives to provide quality of life death; Whereas Dr. Height was the recipient of ease inflicts upon the central nervous and support for their members, those who are afflicted with multiple scle- countless awards and honors, including the system. Presidential Citizens Medal in 1989 by Presi- So I do encourage both sides of the rosis and their families, and it is an dent Ronald Reagan, the Presidential Medal aisle to join this caucus. It is an impor- honor to serve with them and work of Honor in 1994 by President William Clin- tant endeavor. with them and represent them here as ton, and the Congressional Medal of Honor Again, I want to thank everyone who they would have us do. by President George W. Bush on behalf of the has participated today. We’ve heard And what they would want us to un- United States Congress in 2004; and today that multiple sclerosis is a derscore, as well, is the importance of Whereas Dr. Height was a tenacious and chronic, often disabling disease, but our funding adequately the national zealous civil rights activist, social worker, today, new treatments and advances in endowments for the health, the efforts advocate, educator, and organizer in the quest for equality: Now, therefore, be it research are starting to give new hope for continuing research, for accen- Resolved, That the House of Representa- to people affected by the disease, but tuating the research in all neurological tives— more must be done to understand the disorders, those that affect a whole (1) celebrates the life of Dr. Dorothy Irene course of this illness. host of ranges that impact people’s Height; and

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 21, 2010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2741 (2) expresses recognition for her life-long This historic moment was built on the hard She was one of the key civil rights dedication and leadership in the struggle for work and perseverance of Dr. Height, whose leaders who fought for racial and gen- civil rights for all people. tenacity led her to be known as the ‘‘god- der equality in the 20th century. She The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- mother of the Civil Rights movement.’’ helped bring about school desegrega- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Second, Dr. Height’s commitment to equal tion. She brought about, in her own Michigan (Mr. CONYERS) and the gen- treatment for every American has influenced way, the movement for an advocation tleman from Texas (Mr. POE) each will American Presidents for over 70 years. of voting rights and employment equal- control 20 minutes. From President Franklin Delano Roosevelt ity. The Chair recognizes the gentleman to President Barack Obama, Dr. Height’s influ- She was born in Richmond, Virginia, from Michigan. ence and advocacy helped shape the Civil in 1912 and moved to Pennsylvania at GENERAL LEAVE Rights issues that confronted each generation. an early age. In 1929, she was admitted Mr. CONYERS. I ask unanimous con- When Dr. Height was a young woman, she to Barnard College, but she was denied sent that all Members have 5 legisla- was one of 10 American youth invited by First admission when she showed up to reg- tive days to revise their remarks and Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to spend a weekend ister. The school had a policy of ac- include extraneous material. at her Hyde Park New York home, to plan a cepting only two black students. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there World Youth Conference in 1938. So she went to New York University objection to the request of the gen- Through this relationship, Dr. Height encour- and graduated in 1932. She received her tleman from Michigan? aged President Roosevelt to take action to de- master’s degree in educational psy- There was no objection. segregate America’s public schools. chology the very next year, and after Mr. CONYERS. I yield myself as Later, in the 1960’s, she went on to encour- her studies Mrs. Height served as a much time as I may consume. age the Johnson Administration to make un- caseworker in New York City welfare This is a day we come to remember precedented appointments of African Amer- department. and honor the life and legacies of one ican women to positions in government. At the age of only 25, she joined the of America’s most celebrated civil Dr. Height gained significant influence National Council of Negro Women, be- rights leaders, the late Dr. Dorothy throughout her lifetime. She transformed her ginning her career as a civil rights ac- Height, who passed just yesterday and leadership into a movement of empowerment tivist on behalf of African Americans was one that brings back many memo- for those who were living under unfulfilled and all women. ries for many of the Members of the promises of their country. In 1944, she joined the YWCA and House. Her connections with Dr. Mar- She once said ‘‘greatness is not measured served as the national president of tin Luther King, Jr., and Rosa Parks by what a man or woman accomplished, but Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incor- and all of the organizations that she by the opposition he or she has overcome to porated, from 1946 to 1957. Then from was connected with are already a part reach his goals.’’ 1957 to 1997, she was President of the of legendary record. Finally, Dr. Height’s personal experience National Council of Negro Women, and I was with her in 1963 when Dr. King with segregation motivated her to become an during the 1960s, she established led this March on Washington, and I re- excellent and educated leader who selflessly ‘‘Wednesdays in Mississippi’’ to join membered seeing her. I didn’t know her sought to ensure that others have similar op- black and white women from the North at that time, but I sure got to know portunities. and South to engage in a dialogue as a her a couple of years later. Dr. Height dedicated herself to achieving a means toward social integration. I reserve the balance of my time. good education. At a very young age, Dr. Many American leaders respected Madam Speaker, this resolution honors the Height was distinct amongst her peers, and Mrs. Height. She lobbied First Lady El- life and achievements of one of the most cele- provided great leadership to the Christian eanor Roosevelt to help civil rights ef- brated and cherished women in the Civil Youth Movement of North America, where she forts in the 1940s. In later years she en- Rights movement, the late Dr. Dorothy Height. worked to prevent lynching, desegregate the couraged President Dwight Eisenhower With Dr. Height’s passing yesterday, heaven armed forces, and reform the criminal justice and President Lyndon Baines Johnson gained one of its most beloved treasures, system. She was also an advocate for free ac- to desegregate schools and appoint while this nation lost a true soldier in the fight cess to public accommodations. black women in positions of govern- for equality for all men and women. Her focus and dedication paid off as she ment. I recall the first time I met Dr. Height. Her won scholarships, and recognition for her Mrs. Height herself served on the confidence in our nation’s potential, and her scholastic excellence. Although she was de- President’s Committee on the Status of passion for seeing every person obtain equal- nied admission by one institution because it Women, and she was a consultant on ity, made her a force to be reckoned with. had reached its quota of two black students, African affairs to the Secretary of A few years ago, I was humbled when Dr. she went on to attend New York University State. Height honored me for continuing to pursue and Columbia University. Mrs. Height was on the platform with the dream of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, We should be very thankful for the sacrifices Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., when he Jr. and hard work of Dr. Dorothy Height. A recipi- gave his famous ‘‘I Have a Dream’’ Today, I stand proud to have been her ent of the President’s Medal of Honor, the speech in 1963. As Chairman CONYERS friend and to have the privilege to celebrate Congressional Medal of Honor, and a tireless has mentioned, he was at that event in her life before this Congress. advocate for individuals who had yet to see 1963. Today, I would like to touch on three signifi- the American dream become a reality, we For Mrs. Height’s six decades of self- cant points about Dr. Height. honor this outstanding woman. less work on behalf of civil rights and First, Dr. Dorothy Height was a centerpiece I would like to commend my colleagues for for her dedication, she was awarded the on the many stages of the Civil Rights move- their work on this important resolution. In par- Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994 ment. ticular, I would like to thank my good friend and the Congressional Gold Medal in In 1960, Dr. Height was the only woman from the State of Ohio, Congresswoman 2004. Yesterday, at the age of 98, Doro- team member in the United Civil Rights Lead- MARCIA FUDGE, who is the sponsor of this res- thy Height passed away at Howard Uni- ership. She worked beside Dr. Martin Luther olution. versity Hospital here in Washington, King, Jr., A. Philip Randolph, JOHN LEWIS, I urge my colleagues to support this impor- D.C. James Farmer, and many other celebrated tant resolution. I urge all my colleagues to join me in civil rights leaders. supporting this resolution. 1230 Although Dr. Height was not among the b I reserve the balance of my time. speakers who addressed the crowd gathered Mr. POE of Texas. I yield myself as Mr. CONYERS. I thank Judge POE for at the Lincoln Memorial at the March on much time as I may consume. co-leading this resolution from the Ju- Washington in 1963, she was the only woman I want to thank the chairman of the diciary Committee. to stand on the stage that day as Dr. King de- Judiciary Committee for bringing this Madam Speaker, I yield such time as livered his historic ‘‘I Have A Dream’’ speech. to the floor as quickly as possible. I he may consume to the distinguished And 45 years later, she watched that dream support this resolution, H. Res. 1281, majority leader, JAMES CLYBURN, the of equality move even closer to becoming which commemorates the life of the gentleman from South Carolina. true, as she attended the inauguration of our late Dorothy Height, as the chairman Mr. CLYBURN. I thank the chair for nation’s first black President. said, who died just yesterday. yielding me the time. Thank you so

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE H2742 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 2010 much, Ranking Member POE, for join- Mr. POE of Texas. I reserve the bal- Mr. POE of Texas. I continue to re- ing in this resolution. ance of my time. serve the balance of my time. Madam Speaker, I was born and Mr. CONYERS. I am pleased to yield Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I raised in the little town of Sumter, such time as she may consume to the yield such time as she may consume to South Carolina, and just outside of gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. FUDGE) a senior member of the Judiciary Com- Sumter is a little town of Mayesville, one of our newest Members of the Con- mittee, the gentlewoman from Texas the birthplace of Mary McLeod Be- gress, who knew, worked for, studied (Ms. JACKSON LEE). thune, the founder of the National under, and was a mentee to Dorothy Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Let me Council of Negro Women. Height. thank the chairman of the Judiciary When I was growing up, my mother, Ms. FUDGE. Thank you, Mr. Chair- Committee and my colleague from who was a beautician, and Mrs. Be- man. Texas (Mr. POE) for his presence and thune organized the National Council On yesterday, Madam Speaker, a comments on the floor about Dr. Doro- through beauty shops. My mother civil rights icon and humanitarian, Dr. thy Height and, as well, the author of thought that Mrs. Bethune was the Dorothy Irene Height, passed away at the resolution. greatest person to ever live, and she the age of 98. She was my friend, my I am very proud to have joined Con- made me learn everything I could mentor, and one of my predecessors as gresswoman FUDGE to be an original about Mrs. Bethune. the national president of the Delta cosponsor of this legislation and come Later, as I labored on the staff of Sigma Theta Sorority. to the floor today, as we did yesterday, Governor John West back in 1971, I re- Dr. Height was passionate about jus- for I believe that the celebration of Dr. ceived a phone call from Dorothy tice and equality. Everything she did, Height’s life needs no stopping, if you Height. I knew Mrs. Height—she had every position she held, and every pol- will. If we continue to commemorate been a long-time president of the Delta icy she advocated served her life’s mis- her throughout this week, it will not Sigma Theta Sorority, the sister soror- sion, which was to eliminate barriers be able to account for her service. ity to my fraternity, Omega Psi Phi, so to success for women and blacks, while And for those who may not be famil- I knew her. I also knew her because she inspiring the next generation. iar with Dr. Dorothy Height, I only had become the national leader of the Even though Presidents and other wish that this picture was in color. For National Council of Negro Women. world leaders sought her counsel, she maybe as you look at this lady adorned She said to me that she wanted my always took the time to advise and en- with this fabulous hat, well attired, help, because she thought that South courage young women, including my- you will remember seeing in many pic- Carolina, being the birthplace of Mary self. tures with Presidents, kings and McLeod Bethune, would be the place While we mourn her loss, I am not queens, international leaders, a lady that ought to honor her. She thought sad. She lived a great life. We often who was appropriately attired with that Mrs. Bethune’s portrait should be talk about life is not the longevity, but that dapper and beautiful hat. The in the State House of South Carolina. it is the breadth, and she had a great color that I remember most is her At that time no African American was life. So we celebrate her life today, a beautiful aqua, and I say that only be- so honored. There never had been an great humanitarian who leaves a leg- cause many times we look at women as African American’s portrait placed in acy of strong and caring women. That to how they are adorned. the State House and I went to Gov- is why I am honored to introduce this I think that Dr. Height did not fail to ernor West and I told him that I resolution celebrating Dr. Height’s life be noticed when she came into a room, thought this was something we should and recognizing her work. both by her stature and her attire, but do. Dr. Height served as president of the certainly by her words. I would count Well, as you can imagine, Madam National Council of Negro Women for her the most influential woman in the Speaker, this was not met with as four decades, stepping down from the Civil Rights Movement, a friend to much collegiality as we displayed to- position in 1997. In her position with many, one who empowered women and ward each other here on this floor. the Council, which, by the way, con- clearly progeny of Mary McLeod Be- So I called Mrs. Height to tell her nected nearly 4 million women world- thune, what a wonderful legacy that that I thought this was going to be wide, she tackled issues that affected was given to Dr. Height in her leader- very, very difficult. all families, including child care for ship of the National Council of Negro She said to me, now, young man, I working mothers, health and nutrition, Women for some 40 years. didn’t ask for your help because I and providing adequate housing for There are chapters throughout the thought it was going to be easy. She families in need. She served as the na- Nation, and I am grateful to be a mem- said things to me that day that made tional president of Delta Sigma Theta ber of the Dorothy Height Chapter in me understand a lot about who and from 1947 to 1957. Houston, Texas. There are many, and I what I am, and we joined together. We Widely recognized as one of the must remind my colleagues and those covered and counseled each other, and founding members of the Civil Rights that are listening, that the name con- I am pleased to report that because of Movement, Dr. Height was awarded the tinues to be the National Council of Mrs. Height, Dr. Height, the portrait of Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994 Negro Women, which was the name Mary McLeod Bethune hangs in the by President Bill Clinton, and in 2004 that was given by Mary McLeod Be- State House of South Carolina, the she received the Congressional Gold thune. No one dared view that as any first African American so honored. Medal. Dr. Height fought for equal undermining of the dignity and pur- Others have joined us later, Willie rights for both women and blacks and pose, reliability and, of course, the Mays, Rev. I.D. Quincy Newman, but was active in such causes as securing power of this organization. she blazed that trail, and she did so be- voting rights, equal employment op- cause of Dr. Height. portunities and desegregation of public b 1245 When I got elected to the Congress, schools. No one ran away from the word Dr. Height called again, and she told Marching alongside Dr. Martin Lu- ‘‘negro’’ because we knew that in that me that the National Council is going ther King, Jr., she advocated women’s word there was struggle, there was a to put a statue here, in, I believe, Lin- rights during the civil rights struggle. showing of what we overcame. And to coln Park here in Washington. She Dr. Height was instrumental in the the instruction of Mary McLeod Be- wanted me to come and be a part of fight for equal pay for women and orga- thune, we knew that it captured the that dedication. I joined her there that nized numerous programs to help empowerment of women, but it also day, and from that day on, very often, women achieve equal rights and inde- spoke to the education of our children. we would meet, we would talk on the pendence. Dr. Dorothy Height was in the center phone, and I just believe that she is Dr. Height was a tenacious and zeal- point of that. very close to being as great a woman as ous civil rights activist, social worker, I had the privilege of coming here to Mary McLeod Bethune was, and I am advocate, educator, organizer, mentor the United States Congress and being pleased to be here to say a few words in and friend. She was my friend. I will able to look up to Dr. Height as I got honor of her and in memory of her miss her, but my life has been better to know her even before my congres- great life and tremendous legacy. just by knowing her. sional duties. What a pleasure to be

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 21, 2010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2743 able to join C. DeLores Tucker at her Her legacy is one of a glorious and wonderful Harlem to the Executive Directorship of the annual events and the National Council champion of the people. Phyllis Wheatley YWCA in Washington, DC, to of Black Political Women to deal with Dorothy Height witnessed or participated in the YWCA National headquarters office. her seeking empowerment for women, virtually every major movement for social and For 33 years, from 1944 through 1977, and as well to be able to join with then political change in the last century. During the Dorothy Height served on the staff of the Na- Betty Shabazz, Dr. Dorothy Height, 1963 civil rights March on Washington, Doro- tional Board of the YWCA and held several and Coretta Scott King. What a power- thy Height was the only woman on the podium leadership positions in public affairs and lead- ful group of women whose history par- when Martin Luther King Jr. gave his ‘‘I Have ership training and as Director of the National alleled each other, but in essence they a Dream’’ speech. For nearly 75 years, Doro- YWCA School for Professional Workers. In were sisters. thy Height fought for the equality and human 1965, she was named Director of the Center And so I rise today to be able to ac- rights of all people. She was the only female for Racial Justice, a position she held until her knowledge this glorified woman who member of the ‘‘Big 6’’ civil rights leaders retirement. came eagerly to the National Council (Whitney Young, Jr., A. Philip Randolph, Mar- In 1952, Dorothy Height lived in India, that was headed by C. DeLores Tucker tin Luther King, Jr., James Farmer, and Roy where she worked as a visiting professor in and now by E. Faye Williams, and to be Wilkins). Her vision and dedication made the the Delhi School of Social Work at the Univer- able to thank her. National Council of Negro Women the premier sity of Delhi, which was founded by the When we were looking to pass legisla- organization in advocating for the health, edu- YWCAs of India, Burma and Ceylon. She tion to include Sojourner Truth as the cation, and economic empowerment for all would become renowned for her internation- only standing figure now of an African women of African descent around the world. alism and humanitarianism. She traveled American woman in this United States Dorothy Height was born in Richmond, Vir- around the world expanding the work of the Congress, this great heroine, this great ginia, March 24, 1912, and educated in the YWCA. She conducted a well-received study woman added her leverage, her power, public schools of Rankin, Pennsylvania, a bor- of the training of women’s organizations in five her support and sisterhood to ensure ough of Pittsburgh, where her family moved African countries: Liberia, Ghana, Guinea, Si- that we placed Sojourner Truth, a suf- when she was four. She established herself erra Leone, and Nigeria under the Committee fragette and an abolitionist, here. early as a dedicated student with exceptional of Correspondence. So Dr. Height, as you rest today, let oratorical skills. After winning a $1,000 schol- Dorothy Height loved and led her sorority, it be known that we do recommit our- arship in a national oratorical contest on the Delta Sigma Theta. She was elected National selves to the universal access of edu- United States Constitution, sponsored by the President of the sorority in 1947 and served in cation for all children, for the edu- Fraternal Order of the Elks, and compiling a that capacity until 1956. She led the sorority to cation of America’s children, for re- distinguished academic record, she enrolled in a new level of organizational development, ini- minding us that Haiti’s children—now New York University where she earned both tiation eligibility, and social action throughout suffering in the wane of an earth- her bachelor and master’s degrees in just 4 her term. Her leadership training skills, social quake—must be provided education, years. She continued her postgraduate studies work background and knowledge of vol- and to be reminded that there is no at Columbia University and the New York unteerism benefited the sorority as it moved shame in being an agitator and a School of Social Work. into a new era of activism on the national and provocateur and someone who fights In 1933, Dorothy Height joined the United international scene. for freedom and justice. Christian Youth Movement of North America In 1957, Dorothy Height was elected the We are in your debt, the godmother, where her leadership qualities earned her the fourth National President of NCNW and if you will, of civil rights. We will be trust and confidence of her peers. It was dur- served in that position for 40 years, when she forever in your debt. And the women ing this period that she began to emerge as became Chair of the Board and President and the men and the many different an effective civil rights advocate as she Emerita. rainbow colors of these United States worked to prevent lynching, desegregate the In 1960, Dorothy Height was the woman and around the world, people will be in- Armed Forces, reform the criminal justice sys- team member leader in the United Civil Rights debted to you for your common touch, tem, and provide free access to public accom- Leadership along with Martin Luther King, for your spirit, and, yes, for saving so modations. In 1935, Dorothy Height was ap- Whitney H. Young, A. Philip Randolph, James many of us. pointed by New York government officials to Farmer, Roy Wilkins and JOHN LEWIS. In 1961, May God bless your soul. May you deal with the aftermath of the Harlem riot of while Dorothy Height was participating in rest in peace as we celebrate over these 1935. major Civil Rights leadership, she led NCNW days your life. God bless you, Dr. Doro- As Vice President of the United Christian to deal with unmet needs among women and thy Height. Youth Movement of North America, Dorothy their families to combat hunger, develop coop- Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of Height was 1 of only 10 American youth dele- erative pig banks, and provided families with H. Res. 1281, Honoring the life and Achieve- gates to the 1937 World Conference on Life community freezers and showers. ments of Dr. Dorothy Height and Recognizing and Work of the Churches held in Oxford, In 1964, after the passage of the Civil her Lifelong Dedication and Leadership in the England. Two years later she was selected to Rights Act, Dorothy Height with Polly Cowan, Struggle for Human Rights and Equality for All represent the YWCA at the World Conference an NCNW Board Member, organized teams of People Until Her Death at Age 95 on April 20, of Christian Youth in Amsterdam, Holland. women of different races and faith as 2010. Madam Speaker, it was in 1937, while serv- ‘‘Wednesdays in Mississippi’’ to assist in the I was deeply saddened to learn of the death ing as Assistant Executive Director of the Har- freedom schools and open communication be- of Dr. Dorothy I. Height who was a national lem YWCA, that Dorothy Height met Mary tween women of difference races. The work- treasure and a civil rights icon. For more than McLeod Bethune, founder and president of the shops which followed stressed the need for half a century, Dorothy Irene Height played a National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). decent housing which became the basis for leading role in the never ending struggle for Mrs. Bethune was immediately impressed with NCNW in partnership with the Department of equality and human rights here at home and young Dorothy Height’s poise and intelligence Housing and Urban Development to develop around the world. Her life exemplifies her pas- and invited her to join the NCNW and assist Turnkey III Home Ownership for low income sionate commitment for a just society and her in the quest for women’s rights to full and families in Gulfport, Mississippi. vision of a better world. equal employment, pay and education. In 1970, Dorothy Height directed the series Dr. Height was a social justice and civil In 1938, Dorothy Height was 1 of 10 young of activities culminating in the YWCA Conven- rights activist, a servant of the people, one Americans invited by Eleanor Roosevelt to tion adopting as its ‘‘One Imperative’’ to the who served a number of Presidents, a human- Hyde Park, NY to help plan and prepare for elimination of racism. That same year she also itarian, American, a hero, and a great patriot. the World Youth Conference to be held at established the Women’s Center for Education She believed in women’s rights and the em- Vassar College. and Career Advancement in New York City to powerment of minorities. She was an inspira- For the next several years, Dorothy Height prepare women for entry level jobs. This expe- tion to all women. She never ran away from served in a dual role: as a YWCA staff mem- rience led her in 1975 to collaborate with Pace the fight for justice. All of those are words ber and NCNW volunteer, integrating her train- College to establish a course of study leading without motion, unless you had the privilege to ing as a social worker and her commitment to to the Associate Degree for Professional Stud- know Dr. Dorothy Height as I did. You would rise above the limitations of race and sex. She ies (AAPS). then be captured by her charm, her energy, rose quickly through the ranks of the YWCA, In 1975, Dorothy Height participated in the her insight, her intellect and her compassion. from working at the Emma Ransom House in Tribunal at the International Women’s Year

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE H2744 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 2010 Conference of the United Nations in Mexico member of the ‘‘Big 6’’ civil rights leaders she strove to change that and rose to City. As a result of this experience, NCNW (Whitney Young, Jr., A. Philip Randolph, Mar- become a key figure in the civil rights was awarded a grant from the United States tin Luther King, Jr., James Farmer, and Roy movement, meeting with first ladies Agency for International Development (USAID) Wilkins). Her vision and dedication made and Presidents and heads of state. to hold a conference within the conference for NCNW the premier organization in advocating I want to step back for a minute be- women from the United States, African coun- for the health, education and economic em- cause I look back fondly to the time tries, South America, Mexico and the Carib- powerment for all women of African descent when I first met Dr. Height, and it was bean. This was followed with a site visit with around the world. more than 20 years ago as a young ad- 50 of the women to visit with rural women in Thank you, Dorothy Height, for your service vocate working on domestic violence. Mississippi. Under the auspices of the USAID, to our nation. You have made America a bet- It was through Dr. Height’s voice and Dorothy Height lectured in South Africa after ter place for all persons of all races, religions, her leadership and her kindness and addressing the National Convention of the and backgrounds. You have mentored hun- generosity of intellect and of spirit Black Women’s Federation of South Africa dreds, been a role model to thousands, and a that enabled me to become a really near Johannesburg (1977). Since 1986, she hero to millions. You are an American original. strong advocate for domestic violence has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Black I am glad to count you as a friend. and to speak on behalf of the needs of family. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- African American women and women Madam Speaker, under the leadership of tleman from Texas has 17 minutes re- of color in a feminist movement that Dorothy Height: maining; the gentleman from Michigan was not always open to those kinds of NCNW achieved tax-exempt status in 1966; has 51⁄2 minutes remaining. voices. It was really Dr. Height who en- NCNW dedicated the statue of Mary Mr. POE of Texas. Madam Speaker, I abled us to meet those challenges with McLeod Bethune in Lincoln Park, Washington continue to reserve. our other feminist colleagues. And so I D.C. in 1974; the first woman to be so hon- Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I am regard Dr. Height as a strong woman of ored on public land in the Nation’s Capital; delighted to recognize our former State color in the civil rights movement, but Developed model national and community- senator, former ambassador, and now a also a really strong feminist and a based programs ranging from teen-age par- Member of Congress, who has served committed feminist. enting to pig ‘‘banks’’—which addressed hun- here with such distinction, DIANE WAT- Just a few weeks ago, I greeted Dr. ger in rural areas; SON, Hollywood, California. I yield her Height when she was out in my con- Established the Bethune Museum and Ar- 1 minute. gressional district with her beloved chives for Black Women, the first institution Ms. WATSON. Madam Speaker, I Deltas. She was feeling as strong and devoted to black women’s history; come to contribute and to continue to healthy then and healthy of spirit and Established the Bethune Council House as contribute to a woman that really was mind and intellect as she always had a national historic site; the matriarch of the American civil been. And so with that, I rise to re- Transformed NCNW into an issue-oriented rights movement, And I want you to member her, to value her, and as a nov- political organization, sponsoring ‘‘Wednes- know her crusade for racial justice and ice political leader, to know that when days in Mississippi’’ when interracial groups of gender equality spanned more than six it really counted, Dr. Height was on women would help out at Freedom Schools; decades. my side, too. organizing voter registration drives in the This is a fact you need to know: it Mr. POE of Texas. I continue to re- South; and fostering communications between was at age 19 that Mrs. McLeod saw the serve my time. black and white women. leadership, the skill, and the brilliance Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, it is Established the Black Family Reunion Cele- of Dorothy Height. She was 19 years old my distinct honor to recognize our bration in 1986 to reinforce the historic when Mary McLeod Bethune passed the Speaker of the House, NANCY PELOSI, strengths and traditional values of the Black mantle of leadership over to her, and for 1 minute. family. she held it high and she served all peo- Ms. PELOSI. I thank the chairman Among the major awards bestowed upon ple well. for yielding and for giving us this op- Dorothy Irene Height in gratitude and appre- I just want you to know that I found portunity to honor the life, legacy, and ciation for her service to our nation and the out, with a little research, that my contributions of the godmother of the world are the following: grandmother went to school with Mary civil rights movement and a champion Presidential Medal of Freedom presented by McLeod Bethune, and she used to tell of social justice, Dr. Dorothy Height. President Bill Clinton; us about her when we were 3 years old, Her loss is felt by all of us who knew Congressional Gold Medal presented by my sister and I. And so it was many, her, respected her, and followed in her President George W. Bush; many decades ago that the leadership footsteps; but it is also felt by people John F. Kennedy Memorial Award; was struck, and we stand on her shoul- who may never know her name, but for NAACP—Spingarn Medal; ders. whom she worked, for whom she led, Hadassah Myrtle Wreath of Achievement; Mr. POE of Texas. Madam Speaker, I and for whom she made a difference. Ministerial Interfaith Association Award; yield to Mr. CONYERS an additional 10 The Nation mourns the passing of this Ladies Home Journal—Woman of the Year; minutes and ask unanimous consent giant of American history; and our Congressional Black Caucus—Decades of that he be allowed to control that thoughts and prayers are with her fam- Service; time. ily, friends, and the loved ones of this President Ronald Reagan—Citizens Medal; The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there extraordinary woman. Franklin Roosevelt—Freedom Medal; objection to the request of the gen- Men and women of every race and Essence Award; and the tleman from Texas? faith are heirs to the work, passion, Camille Cosby World of Children Award. There was no objection. and legacy of Dorothy Height. From Dorothy Height was also elected to the Na- Mr. CONYERS. I want to thank her earliest days as an activist, she tional Women’s Hall of Fame and is the recipi- Judge POE for his generosity. fought for equality under the law for ent of 36 honorary degrees from colleges and At this time, I am going to yield 2 every American, recognizing that the universities as diverse as Tuskegee Univer- minutes to DONNA EDWARDS of Mary- battle for civil rights extended to Afri- sity, Harvard University, Spelman College, land. can American women and anyone de- Princeton University, Bennett College, Pace Ms. EDWARDS of Maryland. Thank nied the chance to succeed because of University, Lincoln University, Columbia Uni- you, Mr. Chairman. who they are. versity Howard University, New York Univer- I rise today to mourn and to join our For four decades, she stood at the sity, Morehouse College, and Meharry Medical Nation in mourning Dr. Dorothy helm of the National Council of Negro College. Height. She was an American icon who Women, continuing the struggle for an Madam Speaker, Dorothy Height has wit- dedicated her life to racial justice and America that lived up to the ideals of nessed or participated in virtually every major to gender equality. And at a time when liberty and opportunity for all. In movement for social and political change in women and African Americans were re- every fight, Dorothy Height turned the the last century. For nearly 75 years, Dorothy garded as second class citizens, this tides of history toward progress. Be- Height has fought for the equality and human strong, powerful, beautiful African cause of what she achieved, schools are rights of all people. She was the only female American woman stood up for us and no longer separate and unequal, and

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 21, 2010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2745 the voting booth is open to all striving truly exercised her power to change go forward as women—as Congress- to participate in our democracy. Be- lives. women, as mothers—and as we raise cause of what she did, a steady job and As we state in our resolution today: the young children to be future Dr. a decent home are not limited to a per- ‘‘Dr. Height was a tenacious and zeal- Heights, just know that the height of son based on their background, color of ous civil rights activist, social worker, excellence will remain in each of us. their skin, or means. advocate, educator, and organizer in Rest in peace, our dear, beloved Today, we live in an America Doro- the quest for equality.’’ And I join my mother. Join Rosa Parks, Harriet Tub- thy Height helped to build, a Nation colleague, Congresswoman EDWARDS, in man, and the others who have gone be- defined by equality, shaped by civil focusing on that equality for women as fore. rights, and driven by the pursuit of jus- well. Mr. POE of Texas. I reserve the bal- tice for all. The pledge we take every I last saw Dorothy Height about a ance of my time. day, ‘‘liberty and justice for all,’’ that month ago at the 70th birthday party Mr. CONYERS. I am pleased now to is what Dorothy Height was about. for JOHN LEWIS, our colleague. As oth- yield 1 minute to my colleague, the I was very proud to join President ers regaled us about stories of the civil gentlewoman from Wisconsin, GWEN Bush and the House and Senate, Demo- rights movement, there she sat, as dig- MOORE. crats and Republicans, in 2004 when we nified as a queen reigning over the pro- Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin. Thank you presented the Congressional Gold ceedings, one who had seen it all, seen so much. Medal, the highest civilian honor Con- the struggle, seen the change, and now Madam Speaker, Dr. Dorothy Height gress can bestow, on Dr. Dorothy recognized then by the Congress of the gave not only her height but loaned her Height. At that time, President George United States and now in her passing depth and breadth and width and W. Bush said, ‘‘In the presence of Doro- by the entire Nation. weight and length of service to the thy Height, you realize you’re in the Our country is better off because of civil rights movement and to gender presence of grace. But you’ve got to re- Dorothy Height’s commitment, com- equality. Mother to no children, wife to alize that behind that grace there is a passion, grace and patriotism. We will no one, she was queen mother, nur- will of steel and absolute determina- miss her tenacity and zeal for the fight turer, and lover of the civil rights tion.’’ The President later quoted from for equality—our Nation’s heritage and movement through seven decades of ad- her book, but then he went on to say our hope. We will each take inspiration vocacy. Although she was the queen, how Dorothy Height ‘‘always stressed from the story of progress and her she treated each one she encountered the importance of institutions closest countless victories for the American with equity, and it was my privilege to to us: our families, our churches and people. bow down to her each time I encoun- tered her. our neighborhoods.’’ He said: ‘‘She un- b 1300 derstands that those institutions are Thank God for the life of Dr. Dorothy Mr. POE of Texas. I continue to re- important in shaping the character of Height, and thank God for her legacy. serve the balance of my time. an individual, and therefore the char- May her life be more than a memory. Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I am May it be a compelling force to press acter of the Nation.’’ pleased to yield 1 minute to my friend President Bush—President of the on in the unfinished work of the civil and colleague from Michigan, CAROLYN United States, imagine—even quoted rights and gender equality movement. CHEEKS KILPATRICK, a distinguished Dorothy Height’s memoir where she Mr. POE of Texas. I continue to re- member of the Appropriations Com- wrote: ‘‘It is in the neighborhood and serve the balance of my time. mittee and an activist in her own Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I am communities where the world begins. right. pleased to yield 1 minute to the chair That is where children grow and fami- Ms. KILPATRICK of Michigan. of the Congressional Black Caucus, the lies are developed, where people exer- Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I thank the distinguished gentlelady from Oakland, cise the power to change their lives,’’ gentleman for yielding us the addi- California, BARBARA LEE. President of the United States quoting tional time. I appreciate it very much. Ms. LEE of California. I want to Dorothy Height as we presented her Madam Speaker, I have known the thank the gentleman from Michigan with a Congressional Gold Medal. honorable Dorothy Irene Height for for yielding and for his leadership, Con- It is important to note that with all many years. This last weekend, several gressman JOHN CONYERS, one of the of those honors, it was also a pleasure of us went to Bennett College for great civil rights leaders. for us to hear from Dr. Alexis Herman; Women in Greensboro, North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I also want to say, she was the Secretary of Labor. Sec- I was a speaker at the Heights of Ex- as we think about and honor and retary Herman was very, very close cellence Scholarship Luncheon for the mourn, yes, and celebrate her life, Dr. personally and professionally, in every young women who go to that univer- Height was one of our greatest civil way, to Dorothy Height. And at that sity. It was quite an honor for us to rights leaders, a woman, who often- time she sang her praises and talked pay homage to Dr. Height—quiet, cou- times, with the great men of the civil about what she did in the civil rights rageous. Just imagine 70 years ago rights movement, had to make sure movement and what she did to advance when she stepped out as a woman, that a woman’s voice, an African women and young girls and the rest, working with leaders—speaking, giv- American woman’s voice, was heard. but she also talked about how she ing, organizing, and teaching. Here we Dr. Height wore many hats literally made the best sweet potato pie. So per- are, in 2010, wanting to be like Dorothy and figuratively. I am going to miss sonally, professionally, patriotically, Irene Height. her so much. Dorothy Height was all systems go. I want to honor former Secretary A couple of months ago, she insisted I have been passed a note because I Alexis Herman, who served as her that I participate in the National was asking about a film that I recently adopted daughter and who was with her Council of Negro Women’s annual con- saw on TV that I hope can be available for all of these years as we have served ference in Maryland. Dr. Height, of now again. It is called, ‘‘The Life and here in Washington. course, knows the schedule here on the Surprising Times of Dorothy Height.’’ I also honor Dr. Barbara Skinner, Hill, and said, Well, just come out for It is an inspirational presentation of who worked tirelessly and who sur- the breakfast. the life of a person, a person who was rounded Dr. Height in prayer for the I said, Okay, Dr. Height. instilled by her own mother with the last 3 weeks, 24 hours a day. I got there at, maybe, 7 o’clock in the idea that she could do whatever she set Thank you, my sisters. Let us rise up morning. She was there to greet me at out to do and had a responsibility to do and have the strength that Dr. Height 7 a.m. so. showed each of us. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Over Dorothy Height’s lifetime in the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired. trenches for social justice, human time of the gentlewoman has expired. Mr. CONYERS. I yield the gentle- rights, and equality, Dorothy Height Mr. CONYERS. I yield the gentle- woman an additional 30 seconds. advocated on behalf of our neighbor- woman an additional 30 seconds. Ms. LEE of California. You knew you hoods and our communities. She stood Ms. KILPATRICK of Michigan. Dr. were in the presence of greatness when tall for our children and families. She Height, you are in all of us, and as we you were with Dr. Height.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE H2746 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 2010 Whenever we called on Dr. Height, beautiful building just a few blocks away from When I came to Congress 6 years ago, she was there to support our efforts. here at 633 Pennsylvania Avenue—a site I brought with me a picture of the or- Just recently, for example, she joined where slave traders legally operated what was ganization that was taken in 1942. I the Congressional Black Caucus in our known as the ‘‘Center Slave Market’’. To this went over and presented it to Dorothy efforts here on the Hill to support the day it is the only African American-owned Height. She immediately recognized 2010 census. Her passion was an inspira- building on Pennsylvania Avenue, proving that the picture and told me that it was tion to all of us here in Congress. It is she was not only a great leader, but an astute taken in front of the Department of hard to imagine that, in the thirties, business woman as well. Labor in 1942. When I asked her where she provided a resistance movement in Dr. Height remained a fighter until her last she was in the picture, Dr. Height told her efforts to desegregate the YWCA. breath. During my time here in Congress and me, Well, honey, I was inside, doing the We are going to deeply miss her. We particularly as chair of the Congressional work of the organization while the love her. We celebrate her life and Black Caucus. I always knew that I could call members were outside, taking the pic- mourn her death. on Dr. Height and she would be there to sup- ture. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support and port our efforts. Thank you for the time, Mr. CON- as an original co-sponsor of this resolution Last year, she attended President Barack YERS. This was a lifetime of service to honoring the life and legacy of a true Amer- Obama’s first signing of a bill into law at the the American people and to African ican treasure—Dr. Dorothy Irene Height. I White House—the Lilly Ledbetter Act. She American women. I want to thank her want to thank my colleagues MARCIA FUDGE was present for the unveiling of the Shirley for her service to equality, fairness, and her staff and our leadership for working Chisholm portrait and the bust of Sojourner and inclusion. so quickly to get this resolution to the House Truth here in the Capitol. She worked dili- Mr. POE of Texas. I reserve the bal- floor. Today, I join with my House colleagues, gently on various issues with the Black Wom- ance of my time. the Congressional Black Caucus and people en’s Roundtable and the Black Leadership Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I am around the world as we celebrate the life of Forum and often participated in panels here delighted to yield 1 minute to the gen- Dr. Height. on Capitol Hill. Just recently, she joined us in tlewoman from the Virgin Islands, Dr. A Matriarch of the Civil Right Movement, our efforts to support the 2010 Census. DONNA CHRISTENSEN. staunch advocate for women’s rights and all- Her passion was an inspiration to all of us Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Thank you, Mr. around Grand Dame, Dr. Height was a bold here in Congress, and I was honored and priv- Chairman, for yielding. and brilliant African American Woman, who ileged to call her a mentor and friend. Madam Speaker, I rise today with my blazed many trails and opened many doors so With the passing of Dr. Height, our Nation colleagues in support of this resolution that we all may lead freer and more pros- mourns the loss of a true national treasure. honoring Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, perous lives. Dr. Height’s leadership in the struggle for who is the godmother of the women’s Throughout her life, Dr. Height wore many equality and human rights serves as an inspi- movement, a leader in the fight for hats-both literally and figuratively—with ele- ration to all Americans. Her undying commit- equality and justice for all Americans, gance and dignity, excellence and determina- ment to a just society and her vision for a bet- one of the civil rights movement’s tion. From her legendary stewardship as the ter would undergirds the work of the Congres- greatest pioneers, and a true drum National President and Delta Sigma Theta So- sional Black Caucus, and the CBC is deeply major of justice to the very end. It is rority, Inc., to her unprecedented 41-year ten- grateful for her mentorship, wisdom, and guid- because of her unwavering dedication, ure at the helm of the National Council of ance. dogged determination, and invaluable Negro Women, Dr. Height was a woman of Today we mourn the loss, but celebrate the leadership that many of us stand courage and strength. life and legacy of Dr. Height—a visionary and proudly here today. She motivated and Dr. Height’s commitment to equality was re- great humanitarian who gave us all so much. inspired men and women of all creeds flected in so many of her pursuits. In the We love you Dr. Height and we promise to and colors here and the world over. 1930s, Dr. Height traveled across the United continue your legacy of service to all human Today, our entire Nation stands with States to encourage YWCA chapters to kind. us to commemorate the passing of our implemet interracial charters. After dedicating I yield back the balance of my time. beloved leader. While we mourn her more than 60 years of her life to the YWCA, Mr. POE of Texas. I continue to re- loss, we joyously celebrate her full giv- Dr. Height remained proudest of her efforts to serve the balance of my time. ing and meaningful life and her selfless direct YWCA’s attention to issues of civil rights Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I visionary and rich legacy. She has and racial justice. She was so committed to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from passed the torch to those of us who re- this work in fact, that the YWCA named Dr. North Carolina, Judge BUTTERFIELD. main. Let us carry it with pride. Height the first director of its new Center for Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Let me thank My family, my staff, and the people Racial Justice in 1965. the chairman, my good friend Mr. CON- of the Virgin Islands join me today in As a leader of the United Christian Youth YERS, for yielding me the time. extending our deepest condolences to Movement of North America, Dr. Height Mr. CONYERS, I didn’t want our fe- her family and loved ones. worked to desegregate the armed forces, pre- male colleagues to have a monopoly on Mr. POE of Texas. I reserve the bal- vent lynching, reform the criminal justice sys- the floor today. Plus, I wanted to come ance of my time. tem, and establish free access to public ac- down and say a few words about Dr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- commodations. At a time when racial segrega- Dorothy Height. tleman from Michigan has 5 minutes tion was the standard and resistance to inte- Madam Speaker, I had the privilege remaining. gration was often fierce, Dr. Height forever re- of knowing Dr. Height for at least 50 Mr. CONYERS. I yield myself such mained true to her convictions, even when it years. She and my mother, as well as time as I may consume. was not the comfortable thing to do. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, were very Madam Speaker, the recitations of A life-time advocate for peace, equality, and good friends. They were all active par- many of the Members in memory of justice, Dr. Height was especially committed to ticipants in the National Council of Dorothy Height have been marked by empowering women and girls. She stood toe- Negro Women. the personal knowledge and their own to-toe with male civil rights leaders, steadfast In the early 1950s, I would come to intimate relationship with her. I am no in her dedication to ensure that black women’s Washington, D.C., with my mother to different from the rest. needs were addressed. She was forever dedi- attend those meetings. It was Dorothy I knew and worked with her on a reg- cated to helping women achieve full and equal Height and Mary McLeod Bethune who ular basis. She was attending all of the employment, pay, and education. opened up the Willard Hotel for the functions. Up until recently, I could As the National President of the National women to have their convention. At see her anywhere in Washington if Council of Negro Women, Dr. Height led the that time, hotels in D.C. were seg- there was a civil rights event or wom- NCNW in helping women and families combat regated, and it was Dr. Height who en’s event, a national event, and so it hunger. She also established the Women’s helped open up the Willard Hotel for was good to see her. Sure, she was Center for Education and Career Advance- that purpose. At that time, she was slowing down, but most of us are any- ment in New York City to prepare women for helping to build the organization on be- way, so I appreciated that she was as entry level jobs. During her tenure as Presi- half of Dr. Bethune, who was beginning stylish as has been referred to as al- dent of the NCNW, they were able to buy a to fail. ways. She always had that spirit, and

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 21, 2010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2747 it is with great pleasure that I remem- Thomas Jefferson and our Founding the first name that appeared on our ber through the many occasions, start- Fathers. Their premise was accurate, list was Dr. Dorothy Height. We had ing from our first public meeting at the but their practice was not. Martin Lu- that event over in one of the hotels on March on Washington in 1963. She, Dr. ther King, Jr.; Dorothy Height; JOHN the Hill, and it was the most inter- Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rosa CONYERS; JOHN LEWIS, who serves with esting thing that I have been to. Doro- Parks were very important figures as I us; JIM CLYBURN, our whip; and so thy Height was in her hat, as she al- participated in the struggle that would many others called America’s atten- ways wore a hat. We all arrived in our lead to the culmination of the great tion to the fact that it was not living hats. And I still have that hat hanging civil rights movement in American his- out the reality of its promise, not just on my coat hanger in my house here in tory. It is with fond memory that I re- to African Americans but to all Ameri- Washington, and every time I see it I member her activity, her friendship, cans. always think of her. her helpfulness. I think that there may Dorothy Height showed extraor- Here was a person that had such a be some kind of national commemora- dinary courage and conviction in the dramatic effect on our country. Such a tion for her that might be appropriate face of bigotry and discrimination. strong personality, but everything that now that we’ve reviewed all of the med- Like so many in this body who faced she did was with such great gracious- als, commendations, and awards that bigotry and discrimination, they did ness. And think of the times that she she has received thus far. not allow that to poison their souls. saw in her 98 years and what transpired I reserve the balance of my time. They did not allow that to diminish in this country. And I think that Jua- Mr. POE of Texas. I reserve the bal- their relationships even with those nita Millender-McDonald would have ance of my time. whom they saw as oppressors. To that been the first one down here too if she Mr. CONYERS. I am pleased now to extent, they rose above the conduct di- had not also passed on. yield 1 minute to the majority leader rected at them in order to change that So that was a great year and it start- of the House, the gentleman from conduct through love and positive en- ed off with a great event to have this Maryland, the great STENY HOYER. gagement. Dorothy Height is a perfect wonderful person, Dorothy Height, be Mr. HOYER. I thank the chairman example to all of us, young and old, the speaker at our first event. And she for yielding. who are participating in this society did that with such grace, such I want to thank Chairman CONYERS which, unfortunately, too often we see gentleness; yet she always was very for his extraordinary leadership on be- today falls into anger and confronta- strong on her beliefs. And I would call half of the rights of all peoples. His tion rather than civility and discus- her a change agent, but she did so with role in the civil rights movement has sion. the civility that we don’t often see, al- been extraordinary, and it continues to most the white gloves mentality and b 1315 this date. the hats and the type of person that Madam Speaker, I rise on behalf of I am worried about the anger that I she was. this resolution and in memory of an ex- see in the society today. In some re- So I just wanted to come down and traordinary woman. spects I think not justified at the level say that I really support that resolu- I had the privilege of knowing Doro- that we find it. Yes, there is room for tion and thank you for doing it. thy Height for some four decades. That disagreement, but Dorothy Height Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I does not mean that I saw her regularly shows us that notwithstanding the fact have no further requests for time, and during those four decades, but I saw that there may be disagreement, not- I reserve the balance of my time. her frequently during those four dec- withstanding the fact that there may Mr. POE of Texas. Madam Speaker, I ades. She also exuded the positive, con- be people who do not treat us as we yield myself the balance of my time to structive approach that she took to would want to be treated, that the way close. solving problems, to bringing people to solve that is to do so constructively I want to once again voice my sup- together. The historian Taylor Branch and civilly with debate that states the port of this resolution. Dr. Height died rightly called Dr. Height’s brothers and facts and the truth but does not de- at 98. The most important influential sisters in the civil rights movement volve into hate and division. person in my life was my grandmother, the ‘‘modern founders of democracy.’’ So I am pleased to join my friend who lived to her late 90s as well. Chair- Today, we honor the legacy that she JOHN CONYERS. I came to Congress man CONYERS would like to know, of leaves behind. What a wonderful, long, some 30 years ago, and we were talking course, that she was a Roosevelt Demo- productive, constructive, important about making Martin Luther King, crat, never forgave me for being a Re- life we honor in Dorothy Height. Jr.’s birthday a national holiday, not a publican, but once we got past that, Dorothy Height was an extraor- holiday to play but a holiday to recog- she made a lot of comments that influ- dinarily gracious human being. When nize the contribution that was made enced me and made a lot of statements meeting with her, I never failed to then and the work that still remains to that were true then and are true now. leave her side and not feel better. I be done. JOHN CONYERS had me out in She said that ‘‘there is nothing more would feel better about the relation- front of the Capitol on January 15 or powerful than a woman who has made ship that I had with her and that she close to that time every year, and I up her mind.’’ I think that definition had with others as I saw her interface was so proud to stand with him and say fits Dr. Dorothy Height. She made up with others in the room, in the crowd, to America let us recognize those who, her mind about two issues: civil rights in the meeting. Dorothy Height was as Taylor Branch has said, are the and the equality of women in our soci- and is a giant. The Washington Post modern founders of democracy. ety. had on its front page today a very large Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for your So today we honor her. I support this picture of Dorothy Height. It was ap- leadership. Thank you for bringing this resolution and I urge its adoption. propriate that, in the Nation’s capital, resolution to the floor to recognize an Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- Dorothy Height would be given such extraordinary, wonderful, lovely person ance of my time. prominence, not for her death but for whose spirit enriched us all and en- Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I the life that she lived, for the contribu- riched our country. would like to close by thanking all the tions she made. Mr. POE of Texas. Madam Speaker, I presenters, particularly singling out We are all better for Dorothy yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman my dear friend on the Judiciary Com- Height’s life. We are all freer for Doro- from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT). mittee, Judge POE, who has done a very thy Height’s life. We were lifted as a Mrs. BIGGERT. I thank the gen- good job here. society by Dorothy Height and by tleman for yielding. It occurred to me that Dorothy those with whom she worked from a I had to come down to the floor just Height has already received so many segregated society where the percep- to support this resolution. awards, commendations, citations dur- tion was that some Americans were not I served as the co-chair of the 107th ing her lifetime that if the distin- equal to other Americans. That was Women’s Caucus, along with Juanita guished President of the United States contrary to the premise articulated by Millender-McDonald, and as we sat were to ask us what further could be Thomas Jefferson but not lived out by down to plan the events for the year, done, I would recommend that there be

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE H2748 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 21, 2010 some kind of event, bipartisan obvi- Freedom in 1994 by President Bill Clinton. In H. Res 1281, Honoring the life and achieve- ously, but one that draws in Americans 2004, she also received the Congressional ments of Dr. Dorothy Irene Height. I would who may not have participated in the Gold Medal. also like to commend Representative FUDGE, struggles and the experiences that dis- In 1998, she told People magazine, ‘‘I want the sponsor of this resolution, for her commit- tinguished Dorothy Height’s long ca- to be remembered as someone who used her- ment to preserving the accomplishments of Dr. reer, and that might be a wonderful self and anything she could touch to work for Height. way for her to be remembered, as she justice and freedom. . . . I want to be remem- Madam Speaker, as a life-long crusader for no doubt will in the course of history bered as one who tried.’’ There is no doubt women’s rights, civil rights, racial justice and as more and more historical books are that Dr. Height will be remembered as some- gender equality, the legacy of Dr. Height’s ef- written about her contribution going one who not only tried, but went a step be- forts can be seen in many facets of American all the way back to the 1930s. yond to secure liberty and justice for all Ameri- life, from school integration to voting rights, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Madam Speaker, cans. and fair labor standards. our Nation mourns the loss of one of our most Dr. Dorothy Height’s leadership in the strug- Born in Richmond, VA in 1912, Dr. Height, influential civil rights leaders, Dr. Dorothy I. gle for equality and justice for all people will the valedictorian of her high school class, Height, a native of Richmond, Virginia. Dr. continue to serve as an inspiration to our Na- soon encountered the first of many obstacles Height spent the better part of her lifetime tion. to equality that she would face, after being de- working to ensure that others would have the Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam nied entrance to Barnard College due to dis- freedom to accomplish their dreams. As the Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and leg- criminatory admissions practices. She later only woman in the inner circle of leaders of acy of one of the most prominent figures of went on to graduate from New York University the Civil Rights Movement, her presence pro- the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Dorothy Irene in 1932 and earned a masters degree in edu- vided the much needed female perspective on Height. cational psychology the following year. In- decisions made in the struggle to achieve Dr. Height, a leading voice during the civil spired by the efforts of Adam Clayton Powell equal rights for all Americans. Even though rights era, worked side by side with Dr. Martin Sr. and Mary McLeod Bethune, the president she was on the dais with Dr. Martin Luther Luther King, Jr. and other pioneers to bring of the Harlem YWCA, she took as job on the King, Jr. as he delivered his ‘‘I Have a Dream’’ about social justice and equality for African- staff of the YWCA in 1944, where she re- Speech in 1963, her integral role in the move- Americans. Having faced racism much of her mained until 1975. From her position on the ment was not always known to the general young life, she received a scholarship from YWCA staff, Dr. Height was instrumental in public. That role was finally recognized nation- Barnard College; however, she was turned providing leadership training and education, ally when President Clinton awarded Dr. away because the two-person quota for ac- eventually organizing and directing the Height the Medal of Freedom in 1994 and cepting black females had been reached . . . YWCA’s Center for Racial Justice. Congress awarded her the Congressional further thrusting her to fight vigorously to elimi- In 1957, Dr. Height was named the fourth Gold Medal in 2004. nate racial and gender inequality. president of the National Council of Negro Dr. Height was an outspoken advocate for Dr. Height, described as the ‘‘glue’’ that held Women, a position she maintained through the racial and gender equality both before and together the family of black civil rights leaders, height of the civil rights movement. Over the after the Civil Rights Movement. Her life of so- was the most influential and often the only fe- next four decades, she would use her influ- cial activism spanned eight decades. From male voice at the table working to emphasize ence to develop a national platform for a wide working as a caseworker with the New York and amplify social injustice across this coun- range of issues regarding civil rights. The cre- City Welfare Department to her four decades try. ator of programs such as Wednesdays in Mis- as president of the National Council for Negro Familiar with the strength, compassion and sissippi, this 1960s effort brought together Women to serving as national president of courage of women such as Fannie Lou interracial groups of women to volunteer at Delta Sigma Theta, Dr. Height’s life has Hamer, at the height of the civil rights move- Freedom schools and with voter registration touched countless Americans. Political leaders ment, Dr. Height helped to organize ‘‘Wednes- drives, to improve education and civil rights and heavyweights, such as Eleanor Roosevelt days in Mississippi’’, a project to create a dia- across the State. She would later oversee the and Presidents Eisenhower and Johnson, reg- logue of understanding between both inter- ‘‘pig bank’’ program through the 70s and 80s. ularly sought out her counsel and wisdom. racial and interfaith groups from the North and The program was designed as a sustainable Yesterday’s loss is a heavy one. America South. initiative to provide pigs to poor families owes Dr. Height a heavy debt of gratitude for Dr. Height, through her selfless acts and throughout Mississippi. her lifetime of selfless service to her fellow citi- noble devotion to the movement, encouraged Madam Speaker, although Dr. Height’s work zens. Our Nation is a better place because of President Dwight D. Eisenhower to deseg- never drew the national recognition of other her. She will be greatly missed. regate schools and President Lyndon B. John- well known civil rights activists, her efforts Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, son to appoint African-American women to po- have not gone unnoticed. This did not trouble I am deeply saddened by the passing of leg- sitions in government in the 1960s. her, however, as she once said, ‘‘If you worry endary civil rights pioneer Dr. Dorothy Irene Dr. Height rose through the ranks of leader- about who is going to get credit, you don’t get Height. I extend my heartfelt condolences to ship and became the President of the National much work done’’. the family and friends of Dr. Height as our Na- Council of Negro Women (NCNW) while si- She would go on to receive several honors tion mourns the loss of a true visionary, cham- multaneously leading the Young Women’s including the Presidential Citizens Medal in pion, and leader in the fight for civil rights and Christian Association (YWCA), an organization 1989, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Freedom justice for all Americans. she had been discriminated against by as a from Want Award in 1993, and the Presi- Dr. Height began her career as a civil rights child. dential Medal of Freedom in 1994. I applaud activist when she joined the National Council Additionally, Dr. Height served as the Na- the House of Representatives for honoring Dr. of Negro Women. She would later serve as tional President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Height’s lifetime of leadership, her many cul- president of the organization from 1957–1998. Incorporated from 1946–1957 and later helped tural contributions to American society, and In her position with the Council, which con- from the National Black Family Reunion that her service to her fellow citizens. Please join nected nearly 4 million women worldwide, she celebrated and promoted the tradition, tenacity me in supporting this resolution. tackled issues that affected women, including and history of the black family. Mr. CANTOR. Madam Speaker, today, I am child care for working mothers, health and nu- Today, I would like to honor the life and honored to commemorate the life and many trition and providing adequate housing for fam- eternal legacy of one of our Nation’s greatest achievements of Dr. Dorothy Irene Height. ilies in need. heroes and humanitarians. Born in my hometown of Richmond, Virginia She also served as National President of Dr. Height’s legacy as one of the 20th cen- on March 24, 1912, Dr. Height became a lead- Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated from tury’s social justice giants will live forever. Her er and national champion of the civil rights 1946–1957. She remained active with Delta lifetime of contributions to education, gender movement. Sigma Theta Sorority throughout her life. equality and broad civil rights issues inspires As one of the only women at the table when While there she developed leadership training all, as she was not afraid to tackle the biggest, contemporaries like Reverend Dr. Martin Lu- programs and interracial and ecumenical edu- most looming issues of her day. ther King, Jr. and others were formulating cation programs. For that, we are grateful and eternally in- plans for the civil rights movement, Dr. Height Widely recognized as one of the founding debted. distinguished herself as a civil rights activist members of the Civil Rights movement, Dr. Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Speaker, and leader. Faced with many obstacles, Doro- Height was awarded the Presidential Medal of I rise today to express my strong support for thy overcame each and every challenge taking

VerDate Mar 15 2010 03:36 Jul 08, 2010 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD10\RECFILES\H21AP0.REC H21AP0 mmaher on DSKD5P82C1PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 21, 2010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2749 on many leadership roles throughout her ca- As president of the National Council of Decade, an unparalleled period of legislative reer, including President of the National Coun- Negro Women for four decades, she tackled and grassroots activity that resulted in pas- cil of Negro Women (NCNW), President of issues that affected all women, including child sage of 28 major pieces of environmental leg- islation from 1970 to 1980, including the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and her thirty- care for working mothers, health and nutrition, Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the three years of service with the Young Wom- as well as providing housing for families in National Environmental Education Act; en’s Christian Association (YWCA). need. As a civil rights activist, Dr. Height par- Whereas Gaylord Nelson was responsible Her wise counsel has been sought by many ticipated in protests in Harlem during the for legislation that created the Apostle Is- American leaders such as First Lady Eleanor 1930s, and went on to be instrumental in lob- lands National Lakeshore and the St. Croix Roosevelt. She has also earned several bying first lady Eleanor Roosevelt on behalf of Wild and Scenic Riverway and protected awards, including the Presidential Medal of civil rights causes a few years later. Dr. Height other important Wisconsin and national Freedom an I was proud to add my name to was also a key player in advocating for Presi- treasures; a bill in 2003 that was supported unanimously Whereas Gaylord Nelson sponsored legisla- dent Dwight D. Eisenhower to move more ag- tion to ban phosphates in household deter- in Congress to award Dr. Height the Congres- gressively on school desegregation issues. Dr. gents and to ban the use of Dichlorodi- sional Gold Medal. Though we are saddened Height is one of two people to earn all three phenyltrichloroethane (DDT), and he worked by Dr. Height’s recent passing, it is my firm of our nation’s highest civilian honors: the tirelessly to ensure clean water and clean air belief that she will be an inspiration for future Presidential Citizens Award (1989), the Presi- for all Americans; generations of Americans and will always be dential Medal of Freedom (1994) and the Con- Whereas in addition to his environmental remembered for her hard work, courage, and gressional Gold Medal (2004). leadership, Gaylord Nelson fought for civil determination in the fight for equality and op- My thoughts and prayers are with the family, rights, enlisted for the War on Poverty, chal- lenged drug companies and tire manufactur- portunity for all. friends, and loved ones of Dr. Dorothy Height. Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, I rise ers to protect consumers, and stood up to The nation will never forget her, the mother of Senator Joe McCarthy and the House Un- today as a cosponsor of this resolution to the civil rights movement, especially those of American Activities Committee to defend honor and celebrate the life of Dr. Dorothy us who have followed her lead in working for and protect civil liberties; Irene Height. social justice. Whereas Gaylord Nelson was a patriot, who Widely recognized as the godmother of the Mr. CONYERS. I yield back the bal- as a young soldier honorably served 46 civil rights movement, Dr. Height devoted her ance of my time. months in the Armed Forces during World life to the cause of equality and justice for all The SPEAKER pro tempore. The War II, and then, as Senator, worked to ban people. A social worker by training, Dr. Height question is on the motion offered by the use of the toxic defoliant Agent Orange; served on the staff of the Young Women’s Whereas, in 1995, Gaylord Nelson was the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. awarded the highest honor accorded civilians Christian Association for thirty three years and CONYERS) that the House suspend the in the United States, the Presidential Medal as president of the National Council of Negro rules and agree to the resolution, H. of Freedom; Women for four decades. With uncommon dig- Res. 1281. Whereas Gaylord Nelson’s legacy includes nity and her trademark hats, Dr. Height ad- The question was taken; and (two- generations of Americans who have grown up vised Presidents from Dwight Eisenhower to thirds being in the affirmative) the with an environmental ethic and an appre- Barack Obama. In the 1960s, she organized rules were suspended and the resolu- ciation and understanding of their roles as the ‘‘Wednesdays in Mississippi’’ initiative to tion was agreed to. stewards of the environment and the planet; further understanding between white women and A motion to reconsider was laid on Whereas Gaylord Nelson was an extraor- and black women in the north and the south. the table. dinary statesman, public servant, environ- She penned a regular column called ‘‘A Wom- f mentalist, husband, father, and friend, and an’s Word’’ in the venerable African-American who never let disagreement on the issues be- weekly the New York Amsterdam News. And COMMEMORATING 40TH come personal or partisan: Now, therefore, she chronicled her unique experience in the ANNIVERSARY OF EARTH DAY be it leadership of the civil rights movement in her Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I move Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That Congress commemo- 2005 memoir ‘‘Open Wide The Freedom to suspend the rules and agree to the Gates’’. For her service to our nation, Dr. rates the 40th anniversary of Earth Day and concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 255) honors the founder of Earth Day, the late Height was presented with the Presidential commemorating the 40th anniversary Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. Citizens Medal by President Reagan in 1989, of Earth Day and honoring the founder the Presidential Medal of Honor from Presi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- of Earth Day, the late Senator Gaylord ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from dent Clinton in 1994 and the Congressional Nelson of Wisconsin, as amended. Medal of Honor in 2004. California (Ms. SPEIER) and the gen- The Clerk read the title of the con- tleman from Arizona (Mr. FLAKE) each Today, I add my voice to those celebrating current resolution. her life’s work and achievements, and I yield will control 20 minutes. The text of the concurrent resolution The Chair recognizes the gentle- back the balance of my time. is as follows: Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Madam woman from California. H. CON. RES. 255 Speaker, I was saddened to hear of the loss GENERAL LEAVE of one of the foremost leaders of the civil Whereas Gaylord Nelson, former United Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I ask States Senator from Wisconsin, is recognized unanimous consent that all Members rights movement and a true national treasure, as one of the leading environmentalists of Dr. Dorothy Height. I always say, when you’re the 20th Century who helped launch an inter- may have 5 legislative days in which to born you get a birth certificate, and when you national era of environmental awareness and revise and extend their remarks. die you get a death certificate—but it’s what activism; The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there you do with the dash in between that really Whereas Gaylord Nelson grew up in Clear objection to the request of the gentle- matters. And that saying really encapsulates Lake, Wisconsin, and rose to national promi- woman from California? the essence of Dorothy Height’s life. nence while exemplifying the progressive There was no objection. As an African-American woman and long- values instilled in him; Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, I yield time Member of the Congressional Black Cau- Whereas Gaylord Nelson served with dis- myself such time as I may consume. tinction in the Wisconsin State Senate from Madam Speaker, I rise today in sup- cus, I am particularly grateful for the courage, 1949 to 1959, as Governor of the State of Wis- wisdom and determination she employed to consin from 1959 to 1963, and in the United port of H. Con. Res. 255. This measure create opportunities for women and for African States Senate from 1963 to 1981; was introduced by my colleague the Americans in our country. Whereas Gaylord Nelson founded Earth gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. OBEY) Dorothy Height began her career in 1937 by Day, which was first celebrated on April 22, on March 19, 2010. It was referred to the serving those in dire need as a welfare case- 1970, by 20 million people across the United Committee on Oversight and Govern- worker and had the ear of every President States, making the celebration the largest ment Reform, which ordered it re- since Eisenhower. Most recently, she was an environmental grassroots event in history at ported by unanimous consent on April that time; 14 of this year. The measure has the honored guest and seated dignitaries at the in- Whereas Gaylord Nelson called on Ameri- auguration of President Barack Obama. Along cans to hold their elected officials account- support of 70 cosponsors. the way, Dr. Height was behind every major able for protecting their health and the nat- Madam Speaker, tomorrow marks civil rights movement and progressive effort ural environment on that first Earth Day, an the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Our for social change throughout the century. action which launched the Environmental planet faces serious environmental

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