WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) and Representative Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04) have introduced legislation to rename the Norristown Post Office in honor of Charles Blockson, a renowned historian and collector who dedicated his life to the preservation of African American history and culture.
Charles Blockson, born in 1933 in Norristown, Pennsylvania, transformed his passion for literature into a lifelong mission of collecting rare documents, publications, and artifacts that depicted the African American experience. His efforts resulted in the creation of one of the most significant collections of African American artifacts, which he later donated to institutions such as Temple University and Pennsylvania State University. Blockson passed away in June 2024, leaving behind a legacy of educational and cultural contributions.
“Charles Blockson dedicated his life to collecting and preserving African American history. He lives on through his historical collections, which are now studied by countless Pennsylvania students,” said Senator Fetterman, emphasizing the importance of honoring his contributions to African American studies.
Representative Dean echoed this sentiment, stating, “Renaming the Norristown Post Office is a tangible way we can honor his vast contributions right here in his hometown.”
The legislation has garnered bipartisan support, with 12 members of the Pennsylvania congressional delegation cosponsoring the House companion bill. Both Democrats and Republicans, including Representatives Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Mike Kelly (R-PA-16), and Glenn Thompson (R-PA-15), have united in their backing of the measure.
If passed, the renaming of the Norristown Post Office will stand as a permanent tribute to Blockson’s invaluable work in advancing the understanding of African American history and his profound impact on Pennsylvania and beyond.
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