Congressman Panetta Releases Statement on Black History Month

Today, Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) released the following statement on Black History Month:

"The month of February marks Black History Month, when our country celebrates the generations of black Americans, whose courage and advocacy strengthen our communities, nation, and democracy. This year's celebration comes amid a bruising pandemic, which has had a disproportionate impact on communities of color. Our communities also continue to feel the pain and heartache as a result of the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. Despite these incredible challenges, countless black Americans continue the fight for racial equity in the name of building a more perfect union.

Guided by the memory and vision of trailblazers such as my dear colleague, Congressman John Lewis, my fellow members of Congress and I are building on the progress he set forth. Last Congress, we passed the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act to fight voter suppression as well as the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to improve transparency and accountability. This Black History Month, and every day forward, we must continue our work to turn the words of Black Lives Matter into deeds as we uphold our nation's promise of liberty and justice for all."