(Washington, DC) - Yesterday, Congressman Al Green (TX-09) introduced H.Res.198, a resolution recognizing the significance of Black History Month. The resolution was introduced with 69 bipartisan original cosponsors and has been referred to the Oversight and Government Reform Committee. H.Res.198 currently has 76 cosponsors.

“Black History Month is a time of the year when all Americans of every race and ethnicity are given the opportunity to study the untold history of African Americans and their contributions to American and world civilization. Black history is American history and it is essential that we recognize the great contributions of all Americans by commemorating this month long celebration. America’s story will never be fully told without highlighting the immense contributions made by African Americans to this great country,” said Green.

Black History Month was originally established as Negro History Week in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, an African American author and scholar. Dr. Woodson established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915 and worked tirelessly to highlight the contribution of African Americans to our nation’s history. Black History Month is celebrated annually in the United States in the month of February.

“Pioneers such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, Malcolm X, W.E.B. DuBois, and many others fought for the complete freedom and full emancipation of African Americans. That is why we use this month and every month to honor their wonderful contributions. I am delighted that this resolution recognizing the significance of Black History Month has received so much support from my fellow members of Congress,” said Green.