The resolution originated in the office of Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.), who wanted to find a way to pay his respects to Lewis and honor the history of the civil rights movement that reached a fever pitch in the month of March, 47 years ago.
Also consulting with Democratic leadership, Cantor worked with Lewis on developing the language of the resolution, and he worked with Sewell and Roby to bring the measure to the floor, in their capacity as Members representing the region in which the historic events took place.
“Act[s] of leadership, courage and bravery culminated in Congress passing the Voting Rights Act of 1965,” Cantor said this morning. “At that time, there were just six black Members of Congress; now I am proud to serve with 44 black colleagues.
“Their stories are an important part of our nation’s heritage and will serve as a reminder of the determination and sacrifice,” he said.
Rep. Bill Cassidy has his blood drawn by Alesha Barbour during a free hepatitis screening in the Rayburn House Office Building hosted by the Congressional Viral Hepatitis Caucus to recognize "National Viral Hepatitis Testing Day."
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