Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones introduced a resolution praising Carl Stokes, the trailblazing Cleveland Mayor who became the first African American to lead a large city, who was elected 40 years ago.

Tubbs Jones and fellow Ohio members of the House of representatives Marcy Kaptur, Tim Ryan, Dennis Kucinich, Charles Wilson, Ralph Regula and Jean Schmidt are original co-sponsors of the resolution and Illinois Senator and Presidential Canadiate Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and George Voinovich (R-OH) who brought companion legislation to the upper chamber of Congress.

"Ambassador Carl Stokes was an inspiration to all Americans," said Rep. Tubbs Jones. "In particular, he inspired a young, black college student who volunteered to work on his 1967 mayoral campaign to follow her dreams and ultimately become the first black woman elected to the House of Representatives from Ohio, following in the footsteps of his brother Congressman Louis Stokes. That young African American woman was me. I am able to serve in Congress because he paved the way for me and many others. I am truly blessed to have been able to call two icons, Ambassador Carl Stokes and his brother, Congressman Louis Stokes my friends, and it is my honor and privilege to recognize this significant milestone through this resolution."