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        Good morning everyone.

I proudly stand before you today as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and as a proud member of the Congressional Tri-Caucus.

It is an honor to work with my colleagues to ensure the voices of people of color are not absent from this Congress.

I want to acknowledge and thank my good friend and fellow CBC Member, Assistant Democratic Leader Jim Clyburn for his remarks.

I also want to thank Dr. Turner-Lee and NAMIC for inviting me to present this honor to my dear friend and colleague – U.S. Congresswoman Doris Matsui.

Many of you know that Doris is small, but mighty.

Don’t be fooled by her size.

Doris is a powerhouse in advancing legislation that protects the interests of people of color, low-income communities and so many others.

Approximately 100 million Americans still don't have broadband access.

A disproportionate number of these individuals are people of color, with lower income or with less education.

The Internet is the platform that allows everyone a chance to learn and participate in an increasingly globalized world.

Doris’s most recent legislation would ensure broadband access for all communities and is just one example of how persistent she is in making sure no one is left behind in this innovation and information economy.

We applaud and thank Congresswoman Matsui for her courage and her commitment to ensuring that people of all backgrounds have access to and are represented in the media and communications industry.

I am pleased that NAMIC has chosen to honor Doris, because her legacy is one that will show how politics is truly about public service.

She is someone who is working every day to make sure each person in this country has a fair chance and a fair shake at achieving their version of the American Dream.

Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in presenting the 2013 NAMIC Public Advocate Award to the Honorable Doris Matsui from the great state of California.