Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Senate’s adoption of S. Con. Res. 26, recognizing 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent: 

“This International Year should be an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our societies and a time 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.  The International Year for People of African Descent assists in promoting equality, opportunity, understanding, and respect at home and around the world at a time when more efforts to build solidarity amongst all aspects of our societies are needed.  We encourage all Americans to join us in continuing to support activities throughout the remainder of the year.”

A similar resolution supported by Congressional Black Caucus and other Members was introduced in the House by Congressman Bobby Rush (D-Il.).

On December 18, 2009, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 64/169, which proclaimed 2011 the International Year for People of African Descent.  The Year aims at strengthening national actions and regional and international cooperation for the benefit of people of African descent in political, economic, social and cultural aspects of society and the promotion of a greater knowledge of and respect for the diverse heritage and culture of African descendents. 

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