Cherfilus-McCormick Joins Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing September as African Diaspora Month

Washington, D.C. -​​ Today, Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA-02), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), and María Elvira Salazar (R-FL-27)introduced H.Res.720 to formally designate September as African Diaspora Heritage Month.

African Diaspora Month is traditionally celebrated by the diaspora community in September. This bipartisan resolution recognizes and celebrates the impacts the African diaspora has had on our nation's traditions, heritage and values.

"Signing on to the African Diaspora Month resolution is not just symbolic. It's a necessary step in recognizing the global contributions of the African diaspora," said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick. "When we invest in the diaspora, we are investing in innovation, cultural strength, economic partnerships, and a shared future rooted in justice and equity. The African diaspora is a bridge between nations, and by honoring it, we're not only acknowledging history, we're building the future."

"As one of the fastest growing immigrant populations across the United States, the African diaspora has brought a depth of culture and history that enriches our nation. Virginia feels those ties especially strongly, since the first Angolans arrived on the shores of Hampton, Virginia in 1619," said Congresswoman McClellan. "As a state senator three years ago, I championed the effort that made Virginia the first state in the nation to designate September as African Diaspora Month. Now, I'm proud to carry this torch to the federal level alongside my colleagues on both sides of the aisle."

"I'm honored to recognize the contributions of the African diaspora to the fabric of our nation. From the rich cultural legacies shaped by the generations before us to the vibrant diversity brought by recent immigrants, the African diaspora strengthens our communities, economy, and international partnerships. This observance honors the resilience, achievements, and heritage of millions and reaffirms our commitment to inclusion, mutual respect, and continued collaboration between the United States and African nations. By celebrating African Diaspora Heritage Month, we acknowledge a vital part of our nation's history and embrace the powerful diversity that makes America great," said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr.

"I am proud to support the establishment of African Diaspora Heritage Month, a resolution that shines a well-deserved spotlight on the remarkable contributions of Americans of African immigrant heritage," said Congressman Jackson. "This observance honors the rich diversity and strength that the African diaspora brings to our nation's history and culture. Recognizing National African Diaspora Heritage Month not only celebrates these achievements but also reaffirms our nation's commitment to inclusion and unity. As we embrace the full tapestry of American heritage, it is vital that we acknowledge and uplift all voices in the African diaspora."

"The culture and contributions of the African Diaspora have enriched not just my district in Los Angeles, but the United States as a whole," said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. "The African Diaspora - from recent immigrants to the descendants of enslaved Black Americans - is vibrant, diverse, resilient, and deserves to be honored. I am proud to co-lead this resolution to officially recognize September as African Diaspora Heritage Month, ensuring that the invaluable contributions of this community are celebrated for years to come."

"In Miami, and across the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean, the African diaspora is an essential pillar to our cultural fabric, shaping our history, enriching our communities, and strengthening our future," said Congresswoman Salazar. "I am proud to co-lead legislation to officially recognize September as African Diaspora Heritage Month, honor these lasting contributions and ensure their legacy is celebrated for generations to come."

This resolution is endorsed by UndocuBlack Network and African Communities Together.

"African Diaspora Heritage Month is a reminder that the story of Black people in the United States is both deep and diverse, carried by descendants of enslaved Africans and by Black immigrants whose journeys continue to shape this nation. We are proud to support this resolution, which affirms the resilience, brilliance, and leadership of the African diaspora and the central role our communities play in America's past, present, and future," said Patrice Lawrence, Executive Director of the UndocuBlack Network.

"This resolution sends a powerful message of unity and appreciation by formally recognizing the invaluable contributions African immigrants have made. Furthermore, it reinforces our country's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. We believe this is an important step forward and sets a valuable precedent for future initiatives," said Nils Kinuani, Federal Policy Manager for African Communities Together.

Read the full resolution text here.