HR 237: Suttles, John; commend

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.