Outside View: Looking to the future

WASHINGTON, Feb. 10 (UPI) -- Each February, Americans give pause to commemorate the inspirational leadership of African-Americans from the past, as well as look forward to the contribution of future history makers. The bold action of Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., set the course for our journey to social-equality.

Tennessee was fertile ground for developing the ideology of the civil rights movement. In Nashville, the Rev. James Lawson taught eager young followers like Diane Nash the philosophies of non-violence and civil disobedience that embodied the spirit of the movement. The sit-ins at lunch counters that followed sent the message that segregation was spiritually disastrous for everyone and the path to freedom was at hand.

In 2004, I had the privilege of walking a particular path, the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala., where civil rights marchers were trampled by horses, beaten with clubs, and sprayed with tear gas for merely seeking rights endowed to them by birth. Crossing this bridge, I felt the spirit that guided these brave Americans on a quest that still reverberates in our national consciousness. I look forward to another moving experience when I revisit the Edmund Pettus Bridge and other sites on a civil right's pilgrimage next month.

In honor of Black History Month, we must acknowledge the lasting contributions of those who recently left behind their legacies. We pay tribute to Ray Charles, a pioneer in rock music, who paved the way for such artists as Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin and Van Morrison. We also recognize distinguished actor Ossie Davis who was known for his roles dealing with racial injustice both on screen and in real life. The work of these visionary artists will continue to stir and delight people of the world for generations to come.

Every day yields a new record in this proud history. During my time as Senate Majority Leader, I have been privileged to witness first-hand the accomplishments of present day history makers. In June 2003, Barry C. Black was named Senate chaplain, the first African-American to hold this position in the U.S. Congress since the founding of our country. I have also been inspired by Condoleezza Rice who is the first African-American woman to serve as national security adviser and secretary of State.

And, when the 109th Congress opened, my colleague Barack Obama of Illinois became the fifth African-American U.S. Senator. Our nation is blessed to have the compassion, council and foresight of this new generation of leaders.

African-Americans have left their mark on the history of the United States and, indeed, the history of the world. In the 108th Congress, we passed the African American Museum of History and Culture Act to establish a repository for their great story. This new museum will house priceless artifacts, documents, and recordings so visitors from around the world will learn about 400 years of struggle and progress.

This epic struggle for equality reminds us of the value of liberty and the sacrifice necessary for freedom to reach the dark places of injustice and oppression. Our future depends upon the strength of the African-American community and this month we honor their historic achievements.

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(Sen. Bill Frist is the majority leader of the U.S. Senate.)

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(United Press International's "Outside View" commentaries are written by outside contributors who specialize in a variety of issues. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of United Press International. In the interests of creating an open forum, original submissions are invited.)