Matt Ortega, Democratic candidate for California’s 14th Congressional District, issued the following statement in observance of Black History Month:

Throughout American history, the triumphs and adversities of Black Americans have been at the forefront of our nation’s struggle for freedom. A vibrant cultural heritage that is interwoven into the fabric of American life.

Historian, educator, and author Dr. Carter G. Woodson promoted Negro History Week, a precursor to Black History Month, to celebrate the “overlooked, ignored, and even suppressed” achievements of Black Americans.

A century later, the Trump administration’s targeted removals of memorials, exhibits, artifacts, and displays on the Black experience are driven by these same, malevolent forces. They seek to nullify Black greatness—and they will fail.

From the first documented arrival of Africans to the shores of Jamestown in 1619, Black people bore a burden none should. Through unimaginable deprivations and intolerances, Black Americans’ resilience to forge ahead embodies the best of America. Not merely of survival. Not merely of perseverance. But of excellence.

We honor the patriots who served to defend this nation when it refused to serve them. We honor the freedom fighters who marched for justice when it risked everything. For their devotion to American ideals could not be stifled. We honor the scientists who were denied a laboratory and the artists who were denied a stage. For their brilliance could not be denied.

In this year of commemoration for America’s 250th, let us honor their glories and their sacrifices in our nation’s long struggle for an America that delivers on its promise.