S.Con.Res. 9 – A concurrent resolution supporting the goals and ideals of the designation of t…

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Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. (text of measure as introduced: CR S1145)

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Introduced in Senate

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Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR S1145)

March 2, 2011

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Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. (text of measure as introduced: CR S1145)

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March 2, 2011

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Sen. Benjamin L. CardinD-MD · Mar 2, 2011

Mr. President, I rise today at the close of Black History Month to introduce this concurrent resolution that supports the continued recognition of persons of African descent throughout the year both…

Mr. President, I rise today at the close of Black History Month to introduce this concurrent resolution that supports the continued recognition of persons of African descent throughout the year both here and abroad. This resolution commemorates the United Nations designation of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent such that we can continue to honor and recognize the contributions of African-Americans and others to our societies beyond Black History Month.

On December 10, 2010, Secretary General Ban Ki-moon launched the International Year for People of African Descent to ``promote greater awareness of and respect for the diverse heritage and culture of people of African descent.''

We should view this year not only as an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our societies, but also to honor the vast contributions persons of African descent make every day to the economic, social and political fabric of our communities--be they in Africa, Latin America, Europe, or right here at home in the United States.

It is also necessary that we recognize the global impact of the slave trade. As Secretary Hillary Clinton noted in her recognition of this year, ``[this is a time] to remember our hemisphere's shameful history of slavery and to reaffirm our commitment to eradicate racism and reduce inequality wherever it lingers.''

All too often, persons of African descent in this country and abroad face discrimination and disadvantage. We must not only do more at home, but also partner with others around the globe to address these problems.

In the Senate, I have led efforts to strengthen the civil rights of African-Americans and others from hate crimes prevention to voting rights. As Co-Chairman of the Helsinki Commission, I have worked to support the ideals enshrined in the 1975 Helsinki Final Act to ``respect human rights and fundamental freedoms . . . for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion.''

This has included supporting efforts to raise awareness of the specific situation of the estimated seven to nine million persons of African descent in Europe following increased incidents of hate crimes, racial profiling, and other forms of discrimination amidst economic crisis, national security, and immigration concerns.

As we mark the International Year for People of African Descent, I ask that you join me in my work promoting equality, opportunity, understanding, and respect at home and around the world.

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Introduced in SenateIssued March 2, 2011

III

112th CONGRESS

1st Session

S. CON. RES. 9

IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

March 2, 2011

Mr. Cardin (for himself and Mr. Wicker) submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary

CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

Supporting the goals and ideals of the designation of the year of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent.

Whereas United Nations Resolution 64/169, adopted by the General Assembly on December 18, 2009, designates the year 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent;

Whereas the African Diaspora is expansive, spanning across the globe from Latin America and the Caribbean to Asia, with persons of African descent living on every continent, including Europe;

Whereas the historical bonds and shared experiences that tie the African continent with the world must be recalled;

Whereas the global contributions of people of African descent must be recognized as a means of preserving that heritage;

Whereas the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted Resolution 64/169 with a view to strengthening national actions and regional and international cooperation for the benefit of people of African descent in relation to—

(1)

the full enjoyment of economic, cultural, social, civil, and political rights for people of African descent;

(2)

the participation and integration of people of African descent in all political, economic, social, and cultural aspects of society; and

(3)

the promotion of greater knowledge of, and respect for, the diverse heritage and culture of people of African descent; and

Whereas the Helsinki Final Act resulting from the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe in 1975 states that “participating States will respect human rights and fundamental freedoms (…) for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion;”: Now, therefore, be it

That Congress—

(1)

supports the goals and ideals of the designation of the year of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent;

(2)

encourages the recognition and celebration of the collective history and achievements made by people of African descent;

(3)

reaffirms the importance of inclusion and the full and equal participation of people of African descent around the world in all aspects of political, economic, social, and cultural life;

(4)

continues to support bilateral and multilateral efforts to promote democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and the eradication of poverty, hunger, inequality, and social exclusion; and

(5)

reaffirms the commitment of Congress to address racism, discrimination, and intolerance in the United States and around the globe.

A concurrent resolution supporting the goals and ideals of the designation of the year of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent.

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