Jefferson Reporter

The Ripon Society has recently featured a piece by U.S. Senator Katie Britt, in which she honors the Alabama pioneers of the Civil Rights Movement. The publication comes as the nation prepares to mark the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday this weekend.

In her column, Senator Britt reflects on the enduring impact of these American heroes and urges future generations to continue their legacy. She writes about the march from Selma to Montgomery, emphasizing its significance in securing voting rights for all Americans regardless of race or creed. “Though the right of black Americans to participate in our democratic process had been recognized long before, that right existed only in words, not in practice," she states.

Britt acknowledges the courage of figures like Rosa Parks and John Lewis, describing them as "humanity’s better angels" who changed history. She stresses that while civil rights is an integral part of Alabama's history, it is also a crucial chapter in world history. According to her, those who drove the movement took significant risks without certainty of success within their lifetimes.

She further notes that today's challenges should be seen as surmountable when compared to those faced by civil rights activists. “If the civil rights marchers could put their lives on the line... we can do the hard things in front of us,” she asserts.

Senator Britt also emphasizes that the Civil Rights Movement did not oppose American ideals but rather pushed for a fuller realization of them. Recently, she collaborated with Senators Tim Scott and Cory Booker on a resolution commemorating Black History Month, which was passed unanimously by the Senate.

Additionally, Britt paid tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Harry Stewart Jr., a Tuskegee Airman who passed away at 100 years old. On the Senate floor last month, she highlighted his and his fellow airmen's courage and selflessness both domestically and abroad during wartime.