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Foster Commemorates Anniversary of Civil Rights Act of 1964

July 2, 2013

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) released the following statement commemorating the 49th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964:

“On this day 49 years ago, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act into law—one of the greatest steps forward for civil rights in the history of our country. It is an important day to remember all those who have fought for civil rights and equality, risking life and limb and going against seemingly insurmountable odds.

“I am proud to look back today at my own family’s involvement in this landmark achievement. Like me, my father was trained as a scientist. But wanting to serve his fellow man, he became a civil rights lawyer and went on to write much of the enforcement language behind Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964—the act which we commemorate today.

“Thanks to the efforts of so many who have fought for justice and equality, we have made great progress in these 49 years, but the struggle is not over. As we commemorate the anniversary of this important moment in history, we must not forget all of those who continue the fight for equality and civil rights – those fighting to ensure equal work receives equal pay, for equal rights for the LGBT community and for just treatment for our nation’s immigrants. Today, and every day, I am proud to stand with those fighting for civil rights and equality.”