Congressman Cleo Fields Honors Legacy of John Willis Menard on Swearing-In Day Congressman Cleo Fields Honors Legacy of John Willis Menard on Swearing-In Day Shalyric.Self@… Fri, 01/03/2025 - 10:55

Washington, DC – On this historic day of the swearing-in of the 119^th Congress, Congressman Cleo Fields (LA-06), visited the historic gravesite of John Willis Menard at Woodlawn Cemetery, the first African American ever elected to Congress. Congressman Fields’ visit serves as a beacon of inspiration as he prepares to represent Louisiana’s 6^th Congressional District.

“Today, as I took the oath of office, I stood on the shoulders of giants like John Willis Menard, who courageously broke barriers in our nation’s history,” said Congressman Fields. “His fight for representation, even in the face of injustice, paved the way for so many African American leaders and inspires us to continue pushing for progress and equality.”

John Willis Menard was elected to Congress in 1868 to represent Louisiana’s 2^nd Congressional District during the Reconstruction era. Despite winning his election, Menard was denied his seat due to the racial prejudice of the time. When Menard addressed the House of Representatives to defend his right to serve, he became the first African American to speak on the floor of Congress. Though his seat was ultimately contested and left vacant, Menard’s courage and determination remain an enduring symbol of the struggle for racial equality and fair representation.

Congressman Fields’ visit comes at a pivotal time, as Louisiana recently created a second majority-Black district, which Fields now proudly represents.

“The creation of this district was not easy, but the fight for it is a true testament to the legacy of Mr. Menard and the progress we’ve fought so hard to achieve,” Congressman Fields added. “Today, I feel a deep sense of duty to honor his legacy by shedding light on the continued fight for justice and equality in Louisiana and beyond.”

As Congressman Fields begins his service in the U.S. House of Representatives, he remains committed to advancing equality, justice, and opportunity for all.

Congress Number

119th Congress

January 3, 2025

Press Release

January 7, 2025

Cleo Fields

What They Talk About

Speech Tone

Statements (39)

What They Talk About

Speech Tone

Statements (39)