Sec. 2. FINDINGS

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## SEC. 2 FINDINGS The Congress finds the following: ####

(1)In 1968, Shirley Chisholm became the first African-American woman elected to Congress where she served until 1982. ####

(2)Shirley Chisholm inspired and led the march of political achievement by African Americans and women in the 3 decades since she ran for the Presidency of the United States. ####

(3)Her election to Congress and her candidacy for the Presidency raised the profile and aspirations of all African Americans and women in the field of politics. ####

(4)Shirley Chisholm was recognized for her activism, independence, and groundbreaking achievements in politics during and after the civil rights era. ####

(5)Shirley Chisholm was born in Brooklyn, New York, on November 30, 1924, attended Brooklyn College, and earned a master’s degree from Columbia University. ####

(6)Shirley Chisholm worked in education and social services before being elected to the New York State Assembly in 1964. ####

(7)Shirley Chisholm established the Unity Democratic Club in 1960, which played a significant role in rallying Black and Hispanic voters in New York City. ####

(8)In 1969, Shirley Chisholm began her service in the 91st Congress, representing New York’s 12th Congressional District in the House of Representatives. ####

(9)During her service in the House of Representatives, Shirley Chisholm promoted the employment of women in Congress and was vocal in her support of civil rights, women’s rights, and the poor, while fervently opposing the Vietnam War. ####

(10)In 1972, Shirley Chisholm was the first African American to seek the nomination of a major party for President of the United States. ####

(11)A historic figure in American political history, Shirley Chisholm died at the age of 80 in Ormond Beach, Florida, on New Year’s Day 2005.