ST. LOUIS ALL-STAR FRANKIE MUSE FREEMAN

On 2026-02-12, Representative Wesley Bell (D-MO-1) delivered a floor speech titled "ST. LOUIS ALL-STAR FRANKIE MUSE FREEMAN" in the House.

ST. LOUIS ALL-STAR FRANKIE MUSE FREEMAN

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 30 (Thursday, February 12, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 30 (Thursday, February 12, 2026)] [House] [Page H2208] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] ST. LOUIS ALL-STAR FRANKIE MUSE FREEMAN (Mr. BELL asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. BELL. Mr. Speaker, each month I recognize a St. Louis all-star, someone who represents the very best of our city. During Black History Month, I have been highlighting Black leaders who helped shape St. Louis and expand opportunity for everyone. However, this week is bigger than one name. That is because long before the great Bill Clay was elected to Congress, Black Missourians were fighting through poll taxes, literacy tests, and intimidation just to cast a ballot. They were told their voices didn't matter. They organized anyway. Countless leaders pushed from the streets, as well as leaders like our beloved Frankie Muse Freeman, who fought in the courts. When I see new efforts to make voting more restrictive, more complicated, and more conditional, I am reminded why their work matters. Black History Month isn't just about remembrance. It is about vigilance. Mr. Speaker, I stand here because they fought to open the door, and I won't let anyone quietly close it. ____________________