Washington, DC - Congressman Edolphus "Ed" Towns (D-Brooklyn) urged his colleagues today to support a resolution that would award Jackie Robinson the Congressional Gold Medal posthumously.  Towns is an original cosponsor of the resolution.

"When Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947, he was a true pioneer in fighting for racial equality in our country," said Congressman Towns.  "His signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers occurred before the U.S. military was desegregated, before the civil rights marches took place in the South, and before the historic Brown v. the Board of Education ruling.  He is a true American hero.  If he doesn't deserve a Congressional Gold Medal for his courageous acts, then I don't know who does."

"Jackie has had such a lasting and positive impact on civil rights as an athlete, businessman, and civic leader," continued Towns.  "The fact that his conversation with the nation began in many ways in Brooklyn as a member of the Brooklyn Dodgers should give all Brooklynites a sense of pride."      

Supporters of the House resolution expect to introduce it shortly.  A similar bill has already been introduced in the Senate.  Towns is hopeful that the bill will quickly gain the support of the entire Congress.

"I feel fortunate to have known and have spent time with Jackie," Towns said.  "He was a warm, sincere, and giving person.  I can't think of a better way of honoring him and his family for what he did for our country," said Towns.

The bill would also designate a national day to recognize Jackie Robinson's accomplishments.