WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) celebrated Black excellence in the field of aviation on the second International Black Aviation Professionals Day. Black aviators – including pilots, air traffic controllers, skycaps, flight attendants, ground crew members, and more – have been and continue to be instrumental to the success of the aviation industry, overcoming significant adversity. 

Congresswoman Williams introduced a resolution to designate February 16th as International Black Aviation Professionals Day. Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-07) co-led introduction of the legislation. Similar legislation was introduced by Congresswoman Williams in the 117th Congress.

Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said: 

“Because of the accomplishments of Black Georgians in aviation, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the world’s busiest and most efficient airport. It is well past time to recognize Black pioneers in the industry and the continued contributions of Black aviation professionals with a day of recognition during Black History Month.”

Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-07) said: 

“As a former flight attendant, I am so proud to join Rep. Williams to commemorate the achievements of the  Black pioneers who made their mark throughout the history of  American aviation.”

Casey Grant, the originator of International Black Aviation Professionals Day said:

“Introducing a congressional resolution to honor International Black Aviation Professionals Day is the realization of a dream to acknowledge Black aviation pioneers and inspire a new generation of Black aviators to take to the skies. Black flight attendants, pilots, astronauts, air traffic controllers, and many more have and continue to fight for civil rights in the skies. As we acknowledge their service, we must provide opportunities for more Black Americans to enter these amazing and fulfilling careers. I’m so thankful to Representatives Nikema Williams, my fellow ‘sister in the sky’ Lucy McBath, and all of the Members supporting this resolution for their tremendous work toward designating this day honoring our stars in the sky.”

Air Line Pilots Association President Capt. Jason Ambrosi said: 

“ALPA believes we can do more as a nation to open the doors of opportunity for those currently underrepresented in the piloting profession while maintaining the highest safety standards in the world. ALPA has a long history of reaching out to aspiring aviators of all backgrounds and we are proud to partner on all efforts that help recruit the next generation of pilots. We applaud Representatives Williams and Lucy McBath for their leadership in helping to diversify the profession.”

Keyra Lynn Johnson, Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Delta Air Lines said:

“We thank Casey Grant and our congressional representatives for championing International Black Aviation Day, not only because of the well-deserved acknowledgement of aviation pioneers but especially for the focus it puts on the important work that must continue to widen the Black talent pipeline to aviation careers.”

Click here for text of the resolution. 

Congresswoman Nikema Williams proudly serves Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District on the exclusive Financial Services Committee. She is a champion of voting rights and builds on the Fifth District’s legacy as the cradle of the civil rights movement as co-Chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus. Congresswoman Williams is committed to closing the racial wealth gap and ensuring the promise of America for all–regardless of your ZIP code or bank account.

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