House Resolution 237
By: Representative Au of the 50th
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and commending John Suttles; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, John Suttles courageously participated in the historic Bloody Sunday march in
Selma, Alabama, on March 7, 1965, at just 16 years old, walking in pursuit of civil rights
alongside hundreds of peaceful demonstrators; and
WHEREAS, on the day of the march, he wore an army jacket given to him by his uncle,
which is now preserved and displayed at a national interpretive center; and
WHEREAS, the march, which saw 600 protesters of diverse backgrounds crossing the
Edmund Pettus Bridge on their way to Montgomery, stands as a defining moment in the Civil
Rights Movement; and
WHEREAS, despite being hospitalized as a result of the violence that took place on Bloody
Sunday, John Suttles remained undeterred and took part in the subsequent marches from
Selma to Montgomery, including the final march that began on March 21 and successfully
reached Montgomery on March 24, 1965; and
WHEREAS, the sacrifices of John Suttles and his fellow demonstrators contributed to the
passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which was signed into law that August, securing
legal protections for African American voters; and
WHEREAS, he and his wife, Kay, now reside in Johns Creek, Georgia, where they continue
to inspire future generations by encouraging civic engagement through voting, political
participation, and public service; and
WHEREAS, this distinguished gentleman has given inspiration to many through his high
ideals, morals, and deep concern for his fellow citizens, and he possesses the vast wisdom
which only comes through experience and the strength of character which is achieved
through overcoming the many challenges of life; and
WHEREAS, he is a person of magnanimous strengths with an unimpeachable reputation for
integrity, intelligence, fairness, and kindness; and
WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments of this
remarkable individual be appropriately recognized.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body recognize and commend John Suttles for his bravery, courage, and
perseverance in the face of violence as well as his contributions to racial justice and equality
in the United States and extend best wishes for future health and happiness.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to John
Suttles.