March 8, 2012 Dear Friend: Thank you for reading the Carson Courier. For additional information, please visit our website at https://www.carson.house.gov. In this week's Carson Courier: · Energy Independence and the Price of Gasoline · Commemorating the 47th Anniversary of the Selma Walk · 75th Anniversary of the Indiana Symphonic Choir · Remembering Congressman Donald Payne
Energy Independence and the Price of Gasoline My colleagues across the aisle repeatedly criticize President Obama for failing to take steps to reduce our dependency on foreign oil and for the rising price of gasoline. However, these distortions of fact are an attempt to distract the American people from the progress that has been made towards energy independence. For the first time since 1949, the United States has exported more gasoline, diesel and other fuels than we imported. Despite the significant uptick in economic growth, our demand for oil and other refined, petroleum products—including gasoline—was down sharply in 2011. And yet, the price of gasoline continues to surge even higher. Part of this rise in gas prices lies with oil speculators who have driven up the price of oil far in excess of supply and demand. Rather than simply repeat the refrain, "Drill, Baby, Drill," I call upon my Republican colleagues to address the real cause of increased fuel prices by addressing the issue oil speculation. I also urge the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to enact strong limit positions on oil speculation as required by the Dodd-Frank Act. Only then will we be able to really address pain at the pump.
Commemorating the 47th Anniversary of the Selma Walk In 1965, nearly 600 Americans – of all races, ages and backgrounds – joined together in an historic march in Alabama from Selma to Montgomery. This group of civil rights activists, led by future Congressman John Lewis, advocated for voting rights as part of an ongoing battle for equality and justice for the African-American community. On that day, as the group crossed over the Edmund Pettus Bridge, they were met by a wall of state troopers who proceeded to beat and tear gas the peaceful protesters, an incident that later became infamously known as "Bloody Sunday." This week, thousands of civil rights leaders, minority and labor groups, and citizens from across the nation came together to commemorate the Selma March, retracing the original path that was meant to end at the Alabama State Capitol 47 years ago. As the marchers commemorate that fateful day, they also bring awareness to recent attempts in many states across the nation to reduce participation in the upcoming elections. Despite the virtual absence of election fraud, states all across this great nation have introduced strict voter identification laws that will likely discourage many people from voting. These efforts to suppress voter turnout are an affront to the Voting Rights Act, and confirm that our efforts are far from over in the fight to preserve equal rights for all.
75th Anniversary of the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir, one of the most dynamic symphonic choruses in the nation. Tens of thousands of my constituents attend their performances each year and walk away having seen an incredible show. The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir adds much to the cultural richness in the 7th District and inspires Hoosiers, young and old, across our great state. I commend the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir for providing a wide variety of educational initiatives that benefit students and teachers at Indianapolis Public Schools, and I applaud the members of this choir for their tireless dedication to musical excellence each and every season. Their selfless devotion to community enrichment is simply awe-inspiring. Congratulations to the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir on 75 years of artistic excellence! Learn more about the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir here.
Remembering Congressman Donald Payne I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Congressman Donald Payne of New Jersey this week. Congressman Payne possessed an unwavering commitment and dedication to all those he served, devoting his entire professional life to the pursuit of justice and equality for his neighbors near and far. His commitment to the people of New Jersey, the American people and the larger international community is beyond measure. Donald was a dear friend and mentor, and I will miss him greatly. My sincere condolences go out to his family and friends in this time of loss.
Thank you for reading theCarson Courier. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts and concerns. For more information, visit my website at https://www.carson.house.gov, my Congressional Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CongressmanAndreCarsonand follow me on Twitter @RepAndreCarson. I value your views and your input, which help me better represent the people of Indiana's 7th District. Sincerely, André Carson
Member of Congress | 