United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg visited the home of late civil rights leader Medgar Evers in Mississippi's capital city [31e80856]. The visit took place as Buttigieg promoted projects funded by a 2021 federal infrastructure act, including a planned $20 million improvement to Medgar Evers Boulevard [31e80856]. During his visit, Buttigieg highlighted the importance of equitable transportation in achieving equity and justice in the United States [31e80856]. U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson referred to the $20 million as a 'down payment' towards future funding [31e80856].
This visit aligns with Buttigieg's ongoing efforts to prioritize transportation equity and address historical disparities in infrastructure investment. By touring the home of Medgar Evers, a prominent civil rights leader, Buttigieg symbolically connects the struggle for civil rights with the need for equitable transportation.
In addition to his visit to Mississippi, Buttigieg discussed various topics during recent interviews. He called for Boeing's cooperation to improve quality and ensure the safety of aircraft in the United States [6c699fc5]. This statement comes in the wake of ongoing concerns about the safety and quality of Boeing planes [6c699fc5]. Buttigieg emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the aerospace industry [6c699fc5].
Buttigieg also discussed President Biden's achievements and the need to effectively communicate them [15fab614]. He highlighted the historic economic results, record job creation, and low unemployment under President Biden's administration [15fab614]. Buttigieg emphasized the importance of countering negativity and political attacks by telling the story of these achievements and future plans [15fab614].
Furthermore, Buttigieg's visit to Medgar Evers' home and his emphasis on equitable transportation align with his broader goals as Secretary of Transportation. He aims to address historical inequities in transportation infrastructure and ensure that all communities have access to safe, reliable, and efficient transportation options. By promoting projects like the improvement of Medgar Evers Boulevard, Buttigieg is working towards creating a more equitable transportation system.
Sources: Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette [31e80856], Fox News [6c699fc5], ABC News [15fab614]