Representative Kathy Castor

Dear friend,

Thank you to everyone who participated and joined me in welcoming one of Florida's historic leaders to our U.S. Capitol, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune!

Dr. Bethune’s statue now represents the State of Florida in the United States Capitol’s National Statuary Hall Collection, and I trust you will enjoy viewing it in person when you visit Washington, DC. Dr. Bethune is the first Black American to represent any state, and takes the place of an obscure confederate general who has represented Florida since 1922. She is one of only a few women to represent a state in the 100-statue collection. She embodies the very best of the Sunshine State. We can take great pride in being represented by this great educator and civil rights icon.

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Friends and Dr. Bethune’s family helped celebrate this momentous occasion. There were even viewing parties in Tampa and across Florida for unveiling ceremony. I was inspired in this journey by my mother, Betty, an educator, who along with my dad always valued public education and teachers. We need to lift up educators more robustly – and the statue is especially dedicated to you!

Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune is an outstanding representative of the State of Florida. Her life and legacy are a symbol of justice, hope and love for America and all humankind. I am glad that she is being rightfully recognized here in her place of honor and viewed by all of America in the U.S. Capitol and am grateful to everyone who made this day possible.

In the weeks and months ahead, I look forward to welcoming you and your family for a tour of the Capitol where you can view the statue of Dr. Bethune and hear more about her life’s work.

Watch the full historic unveiling ceremony of Dr. Bethune's statue here.

Sincerely,

Kathy Castor
Member of Congress