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U.S. Representative David Scott (GA-13), chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, yesterday evening delivered remarks on the floor of the House of Representatives in support of S.475, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, legislation to make June 19 a federal holiday.

Twitter @RepDavidScott: [VIDEO] “With yesterday’s bipartisan House vote to make Juneteenth a federal holiday, we reaffirm with one resounding voice and hope in our hearts that we are one people and one nation –– united, indivisible and free. I look forward to seeing @POTUS sign it into law.”

The legislation was passed with overwhelmingly bipartisan support (415-14) and now heads to President Joe Biden’s desk for his signature. Chairman David Scott’s full remarks are below.

FULL REMARKS:

Thank you very much.

To some of my Republican friends, let me just say to you, if our African-American slave ancestors were here today, they would say to you, “You know, them that’s got should get. And them that’s not, should lose. [Because] the Bible says – and it still is news – your mama may have and your papa may have, but God bless the child that’s got his own. God bless the child who can say I am free.” 

Two-hundred years in the deep slavery south, but God put hope in our hearts and a song in our mouth. All we’re asking is for you to express the feeling and the depth of the African American people today, who need you, all of us, white and Black members of Congress, to stand together and vote yes.

And by doing so, you will say not, “This is my country,” you will say, in one united voice, “This is our country, Black and white. This is our country, the greatest country. And we thank God almighty for this blessing.”

Please, let us do as the Senate [and] vote unanimously for passage of this bill.

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