Friend,

Last week, a Florida Circuit Court of Appeals struck down an anti-voting law that advocates are calling a “21st-century poll tax.” It made me think of grade school history class, learning about poll taxes and other measures designed to prevent black Americans from participating in our democracy. But even back then, we were taught to think of these barriers as a thing of the past.

James Baldwin once wrote, “People are trapped in history and history is trapped in them.” And as Black History Month comes to an end, I encourage all of us to reflect upon the ways in which the history we observe -- and celebrate, and lament -- is, in fact, our reality. And it’s up to each and every one of us to decide: Are we content allowing history to repeat itself? Or are we prepared to take a stand and join in the fight for racial justice and equality?

In Congress, I’m committing myself to the latter. So in honor of Black History Month, and in recognition of the work that lies ahead for months and months to come, I hope you’ll join me.

Thank you,
Ted