Thread by @DenbrotS

#IDedicateThisWeekTo Joseph Rainey, the first black person to serve in the US House of Representatives. His service included time as presiding officer of the House. Born into slavery in SC, he &his family were freed in the 1840s when his father purchased their freedom.

Joseph Rainey supported the Enforcement Acts, to suppress the violent activities of the Ku Klux Klan. This helped before white insurgents developed paramilitary groups (the White League &Red Shirts.
He made 3 speeches in support of what was passed as the Civil Rights Act of 1875.

But we do want a law enacted that we may be recognized like other men in the country. Why is it that colored members of Congress cannot enjoy the same immunities that are accorded to white members? Why cannot we stop at hotels here without meeting objection?..

Joseph Rainey

...We are here enacting laws for the country and casting votes upon important questions; we have been sent here by the suffrages of the people, and why cannot we enjoy the same benefits that are accorded to our white colleagues on this floor?

Joseph Rainey

say to you gentlemen, that this discrimination against the Negro race in this country is unjust, is unworthy of a high-minded people whose example should have a salutary influence in the world.

Joseph Hayne Rainey
Speech on Civil Rights Act (1873)

Sir, I ask this House, I ask the country, I ask white men, I ask Democrats, I ask Republicans whether the Negroes have presumed to take improper advantage of the majority they hold in that State [SC] by disregarding the interest of the minority?
They have not.

Joseph Rainey