WASHINGTON — February marks the celebration of Black History month across the nation.Here in Alabama we are blessed with a rich history of prominent African Americans who have helped bring about greater justice and equality in our nation and our world, from Dr. Martin Luther King, to Mrs. Rosa Parks, to the brave Tuskegee Airmen, to name just a few.

This week, as we reach the mid-point of this important month, I wanted to again highlight a few examples that help tell the story of East Alabama’s many important contributions to the Civil Rights movement in our nation.

In the city of Talladega, for example, we are fortunate to have available to view the Amistad Murals at Talladega College in Talladega.

At this important and growing institution, these amazing hand-painted murals by Hale Aspacio Woodruff in 1938 depict the story of the Amistad.

Current plans call for the ongoing restoration of these important and irreplaceable pieces of art.

East Alabama is also home to the Tuskegee Airmen and Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site.

As we all know, the Tuskegee Airmen were some of the bravest and most talented men who served our country as military pilots in World War II.

Thanks to its ground breaking in late 2008, the city is now home to the National Park Service historic site which honors those men who fought on our behalf.

In 2005, Congress honored the Tuskegee Airmen for their service. I will continue to do all I can to help finish this important historic site as soon as possible.

In Montgomery, one of the most recognized leaders of the Civil Rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., preached at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in downtown and devoted his life to bringing equality to all Americans. The church continues to this day, along with Dr. King’s parsonage, as important national historic sites.

Also in Montgomery, Mrs. Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on the bus in 1955. Efforts are now under way to restore her apartment so it can be viewed by future generations.

Throughout East Alabama we can learn firsthand about many of the monumental events in our nation’s historic struggle for equality and justice. This month, as with every month, I encourage everyone to explore these and the many other treasures of our shared history.

As always, contact me on this or any issue at www.house.gov/mike-rogers, friend me at www.facebook.com, follow me at www.twitter.com/MikeRogersAL or watch me on www.youtube/MikeRogersAL.