[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 4] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 4660] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]COMMEMORATING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS of maryland in the house of representatives Thursday, March 30, 2006 Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Women's History Month. Since 1987, the month of March has been designated to give special prominence to the women who have made lasting contributions to our society. Over the last two centuries, the achievements made by women have been nothing short of phenomenal. During this month, we have an opportunity to recognize Rosa Parks for revolutionizing a successful movement that forced racial integration in America through her refusal to give up her seat to a white man on a public bus. Additionally, we must acknowledge Coretta Scott King, the first Lady of the Civil Rights movement and widower of the incomparable Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who transformed her grief into an aspiration to eradicate social injustice and achieve equality for all. We must also remember Hattie McDaniel, whose dynamic career as an acclaimed singer and actress on film, television, and radio led her to become the first African-American to win the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award in 1940. This great achievement also resulted in her becoming the 29th image to appear on the Black Heritage commemorative stamp series in January 2006. Mr. Speaker, what makes these icons so extraordinary is that many of their actions, and sacrifices have not only added to the richness and depth of American history, but made the present better for the world. Yet, even as we remember the famous women who have made history by traveling in space, like Mae Jemison and Sally K. Ride, or curing disease, like Marie Curie and Mary Eliza Mahoney or leading revolutions like Sojourner Truth or Alice Paul, we should also be mindful of those who have devoted their lives to the people of their communities, never seeking the spotlight of history. Maryland Delegate Lena K. Lee, a master legislator, teacher, union leader, and a lawyer blazed a trail of distinguished public service and is one such extraordinary woman. In 1967, Delegate Lena K. Lee began a 15-year term as the first African American female lawyer in the Maryland House of Delegates. During her tenure, she dedicated her energy and talents towards eradicating social inequalities and advocating for women's rights. Her life exemplified excellence and I am proud to say that The Lena K. Lee Post Office bill was signed into law on March 20, 2006 and a postal office in my district has officially been renamed after her. In addition, several days ago, when I learned that Weptanomah Carter, the daughter, wife and mother of prominent ministers from my district, had died, I was reminded, once again, of just how much one determined woman can accomplish. The spotlight of public acclaim did not fall upon Weptanomah Carter, but her achievements--as teacher, theologian, author and community- builder will forever forge a place in our hearts. Throughout her marriage to Dr. Harold A. Carter, Sr., a friend and teacher of mine, the Carters worked together, and became a powerful team. In 1965, they brought an uplifting Gospel to the people of Baltimore--a message both spiritual and social that spoke to the hearts of people in our community. Under their care, New Shiloh Baptist Church would grow into the 5,000-member choir for God that it has become today--a House of God that also is a social powerhouse for the betterment of its community. Trained as an educator, she was also the driving force that created the Carter Children's Center. There, young people born into a neighborhood that others too often overlook, could receive food and clothing for their bodies, tutoring for their minds and a kind word that would uplift their souls. This manifestation of Mrs. Carter's love for the children in my District was her most compelling testament. The church was at the center of Weptanomah Carter's life and she valued the importance of rebuilding individuals--one soul at a time. Yet, through four decades of service to the congregation and community she loved alongside her husband, she never ceased being her own woman. This, I think, is why she and all of the other historic women are such compelling role models for the young women of today. Their lives teach all of us an important lesson--that we can achieve heights well beyond our initial expectations when we have the courage and determination to follow our true calling in life. This is how--through service to others--that these inspiring women earned their own, honored place in history. For their calling became a chronicle of devotion--to God, to their families and to America. I thank them and all of America's women, especially my dear Mother, who are the backbone of our nation and create their own untold histories every day. ____________________