Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-06-09

HONORING THE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHOIR AND DR. KELVIN TOWERS

Immigration

Context

On 2026-06-09, Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS-2) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHOIR AND DR. KELVIN TOWERS" in the House.

Full Text

HONORING THE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHOIR AND DR. KELVIN TOWERS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E552] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHOIR AND DR. KELVIN TOWERS ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 9, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary achievements of the Coahoma Community College Choir and its distinguished director, Dr. Kelvin Towers, as they represent the State of Mississippi and our Nation through their recent travel to India. The Coahoma Community College Choir, based in Clarksdale, Mississippi, has long been a source of pride for the Mississippi Delta. Under the exceptional leadership of Dr. Towers, the choir has earned a reputation for musical excellence, discipline, and cultural enrichment. Their commitment to the arts has not only elevated their institution but has also served as a beacon of inspiration for students and communities throughout our region. The Coahoma Community College Choir recently continued its tradition of excellence on a global stage through its participation in the 100 Days World Cultural Festival and World Religions Summit in Karnataka, India. From Clarksdale to India, these students represented Mississippi and the United States through their--original production, The African American Story, Sung in a Foreign Land, sharing a message of unity, culture, and faith with audiences from around the world. This recognition celebrates more than a performance. It reflects a commitment to excellence, cultural exchange, and global impact. The choir's invitation to travel to India is a testament to its talent and to the global reach of its artistry. This opportunity allowed the choir to share the rich musical traditions of the Mississippi Delta while also embracing and learning from the diverse cultural heritage of India. Through their performances, they served as ambassadors of goodwill, fostering cultural exchange, unity, and mutual understanding across international borders. Dr. Towers' dedication to mentoring and guiding his students cannot be overstated. His leadership has cultivated not only musical excellence, but also confidence, discipline, and a broader worldview among his students. By exposing them to international experiences, he has expanded their horizons and provided them with opportunities that will have a lasting impqct on their personal and professional lives. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the Coahoma Community College Choir and Dr. Kelvin Towers for exemplifying the power of education, the arts, and cultural exchange, and for representing Mississippi and the United States with excellence, dignity, and pride. ____________________

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HONORING THE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHOIR AND DR. KELVIN TOWERS Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E552] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE COAHOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHOIR AND DR. KELVIN TOWERS ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 9, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary achievements of the Coahoma Community College Choir and its distinguished director, Dr. Kelvin Towers, as they represent the State of Mississippi and our Nation through their recent travel to India. The Coahoma Community College Choir, based in Clarksdale, Mississippi, has long been a source of pride for the Mississippi Delta. Under the exceptional leadership of Dr. Towers, the choir has earned a reputation for musical excellence, discipline, and cultural enrichment. Their commitment to the arts has not only elevated their institution but has also served as a beacon of inspiration for students and communities throughout our region. The Coahoma Community College Choir recently continued its tradition of excellence on a global stage through its participation in the 100 Days World Cultural Festival and World Religions Summit in Karnataka, India. From Clarksdale to India, these students represented Mississippi and the United States through their--original production, The African American Story, Sung in a Foreign Land, sharing a message of unity, culture, and faith with audiences from around the world. This recognition celebrates more than a performance. It reflects a commitment to excellence, cultural exchange, and global impact. The choir's invitation to travel to India is a testament to its talent and to the global reach of its artistry. This opportunity allowed the choir to share the rich musical traditions of the Mississippi Delta while also embracing and learning from the diverse cultural heritage of India. Through their performances, they served as ambassadors of goodwill, fostering cultural exchange, unity, and mutual understanding across international borders. Dr. Towers' dedication to mentoring and guiding his students cannot be overstated. His leadership has cultivated not only musical excellence, but also confidence, discipline, and a broader worldview among his students. By exposing them to international experiences, he has expanded their horizons and provided them with opportunities that will have a lasting impqct on their personal and professional lives. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the Coahoma Community College Choir and Dr. Kelvin Towers for exemplifying the power of education, the arts, and cultural exchange, and for representing Mississippi and the United States with excellence, dignity, and pride. ____________________