Resolution Celebrating Life of Trailblazer Journalist Alice Dunnigan Introduced by Reps. Kelly & Clarke

Washington, D.C. – Representatives Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) introduced a House Resolution Commending Alice Allison Dunnigan for her barrier-breaking career in journalism. H.Res. 690 was introduced by the Congresswomen on Tuesday.

Ms. Dunnigan was a pioneering journalist who overcame poverty, sexism and racism to become the first Black woman to receive press credentials from the White House, Congress and Supreme Court. Ms. Dunnigan served as Washington Bureau Chief for the Associated Press from 1947 until 1961, during which time she ensured that readers throughout the nation were informed about how governmental decisions impacted their lives and she fought to ensure that public officials made on-the-record comments about policies impacting minority communities. She was the first Black female White House correspondent and first Black woman elected to the Women's National Press Club. She was also a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated.

Kelly said: "Alice Allison Dunnigan was a true trailblazer in the world of journalism. Through her tenacity and reporting, she explained to the American people how biased government decisions negatively impacted communities of color. In doing so, she helped change the conversation and policies for the better. By uplifting and celebrating her work and legacy, we hope to inspire more young people to pursue careers in uncovering the truth for the societal benefit of all. I'm proud to co-sponsor this resolution and more proud to call Alice my Sigma Gamma Rho Soror."

Clarke said: "As co-chair of the Multicultural Media Caucus and co-chair of the Black Women and Girls Caucus, I am ecstatic to celebrate and commemorate a dynamic woman of the media industry. Ms. Dunnigan is the epitome of a trailblazer in media and journalism. We must continue to share American stories like that of Alice Dunnigan and celebrate the diversity that makes this country great."

Alice Allison Dunnigan was born at the turn of the 20th century, in an era when women could not vote and African Americans were regarded legally as an inferior race, and was able to accomplish what most women of her background could only dream. H.Res. 690 was reintroduced by Reps. Clarke and Kelly to commemorate the life and work of this unparalleled, relentless woman.