“Each generation is defined by a handful of significant events which shape our nation and today we recognize and honor nine individuals and their courageous actions that had an immediate impact on our society, and are still felt and appreciated today,” Ross said. “As we memorialize their legacies of bravery so that future generations of Americans will forever know their struggle, we can never forget the sacrifices they endured for the sake of progress on behalf of millions. The opportunity to stand with the nine brave men and women who integrated Little Rock Central High School 50 years ago is one of the greatest honors of my lifetime.”

Ross delivered remarks on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives Monday evening in support of House Resolution 668, which Recognizes the 50th anniversary of the September 25, 1957, desegregation of Little Rock Central High School by the Little Rock Nine. The resolution passed the House unanimously.

Ross attended the commemorative ceremony in Little Rock along with members of the Arkansas Congressional Delegation and the Congressional Black Caucus.

In addition, Ross helped pass legislation in Congress in 2005 authorizing the U.S. Mint to memorialize the Little Rock Nine with a commemorative silver dollar. The legislation was later signed by President Bush and made Public Law 109-146. For more information on the Little Rock Central High School Desegregation Silver Dollar Program, please visit the U.S. Mint’s website at: http://www.usmint.gov/.

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