(Washington, DC)  “Full voting representation in Congress is a fundamental right of every American. But the citizens of the District of Columbia are denied this basic right. This is an issue of civil rights for all District residents. But it is also an economic issue. Without a vote in the House or the Senate, we do not have the same access to federal funds that states now enjoy. I believe – as I think all Americans believe – that District residents deserve full voting rights in Congress. We should not be denied the basic rights we are due as Americans. I have taken this crusade to Congress, to the White House, to the National League of Cities, and to the US Conference of Mayors. I will continue to fight vigorously for our rights.

“Earlier today, the Council’s Subcommittee on Labor, Voting Rights, and Redistricting held its first hearing on proposed legislation that would authorize a redesign of the District’s official flag to include the phrase, “Taxation Without Representation.”  This proposal will bring needed attention and focus on the issue of DC voting rights. This morning’s hearing, however, should signal the beginning of a thoughtful and vigorous public debate on the larger issue of voting rights and on the more narrow issue of whether or not the proposed lettering should be added to our flag.

“Our city flag serves as our state flag. In fact, it was District resident Charles A.R. Dunn who, in 1917, recognized that the 48 continental states all had official flags and the District had none. He then proceeded to draft the design for a DC flag from the Coat of Arms of George Washington. A Congressionally-appointed Flag Commission approved the design in 1938 and it has been a symbol of our city ever since. Before any final decision is made on whether or not to alter the design of our traditional flag, I feel strongly that all citizens should have an opportunity to review and discuss this pr