Rep. Terri A. Sewell, U.S. Congresswoman representing Alabama’s 7th district since 2011, used her social media platform on September 15, 2025, to commemorate the anniversary of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham and honor those affected by the tragedy.
In a post published at 13:01 UTC, Sewell stated: “On this day in 1963, four precious little girls were killed when white supremacists bombed the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. We must never forget the price they paid for the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Later that day at 18:15 UTC, she highlighted her legislative efforts related to the event: “The very first bill I passed in Congress was to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the #FourLittleGirls killed in the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing. 62 years after the attack, we are reminded that every gain in the battle for civil rights has come at a high cost, paid by”
In a separate message posted at 19:34 UTC on September 15, Sewell expressed condolences following a personal loss: “Chef Michael Glenn was an amazing caterer and friend. The food he prepared was as exquisite as the beautiful attire he wore in which to serve his curated creations. Sending my condolences to his family and the great many friends who mourn his passing.”
The bombing of Birmingham’s 16th Street Baptist Church occurred on September 15, 1963. Four African American girls—Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Carole Robertson and Cynthia Wesley—were killed when members of a white supremacist group planted explosives at their church during Sunday services. The attack became a turning point in U.S. civil rights history.
Sewell’s reference to awarding Congressional Gold Medals reflects her legislative record; her first successful bill recognized these victims for their role in advancing civil rights.
Born in Huntsville and currently residing in Birmingham, Terri Sewell has served Alabama’s Seventh District since replacing Artur Davis in Congress over a decade ago. She holds degrees from Princeton University (BA), St Hilda’s College Oxford (MA), and Harvard Law School (JD).
