BROOKLYN, NY – U.S. Representative Yvette D. Clarke issued the following statement in honor of Black History Month.

“As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize the contributions and accomplishments of African-Americans throughout American history,” said Representative Yvette D. Clarke. “On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, President Barack Obama was inaugurated for a second time, showing again the great strides that our nation has made. This historic event, however, cannot be judged alone, and must be recognized as one of many steps towards equality.

“The bravery and heroic actions of our leaders – past and present – demonstrate the ongoing struggle for equal opportunity,” continued Representative Clarke.

“Let us continue to honor the legacy of those who came before us, who paved the way, and helped shatter glass ceilings for all Americans. I encourage everyone to renew their commitment to community service and positive change,” concluded Representative Clarke.

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U.S. Representative Yvette D. Clarke is a member of the House Committee on Small Business, Ethics, and Homeland Security, where she is the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies. She represents several neighborhoods in central and southern Brooklyn, NY which includes Brownsville, Crown Heights, East Flatbush, Flatbush, Gerritsen Beach, Madison, Midwood, Ocean Hill, parts of Park Slope and Flatlands, Prospect Heights, Prospect-Lefferts Gardens, Sheepshead Bay, and Windsor Terrace.