Outgoing Rep. Jasmine Crockett went viral over Independence Day weekend for comments she made at the Essence Festival — telling the crowd America owes Black women “everything.”
The Texas Democrat made the remarks in New Orleans during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, sparking fierce online backlash.
“When it comes to answering the question of what America owes Black women, the answer is everything.”
Crockett continued: “When we think about the sacrifices that Black women have made, from the moment we were stolen from our homelands and transported into this country, to the fact that Black women continue to stand as the backbone — specifically of the Democratic Party — we know that Black women are always the ones doing the labor, but we are also the ones that are the first targets of any harm.”
The Essence Festival of Black Culture, which is linked to Essence magazine, brings together Black voices to celebrate culture, community and commerce. Rapper Cardi B performed at the event, and former first lady Michelle Obama gave a speech.
The comments came as Americans celebrated the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Crockett added: “So, this Fourth of July, I say celebrate a Black woman that you know, because whether it’s an invention that she made, or whether it’s the very democracy that still hangs by a thread right now, there is Black woman to thank for her contributions.”
The clip quickly made the rounds on social media, eliciting incredulous responses from conservatives.
“I thought the point of Independence Day was to celebrate America as a country not individuals no matter what race they are,” said one social media user.
“Democracy is not hanging by a thread. That’s insane,” said another.
A third claimed: “Your skin color doesn’t make you special.”
“Thank God in 6 months she’ll be gone,” one remarked, referring to her impending departure from Congress.
Crockett ran for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas instead of seeking re-election to the House. She lost the primary to state Rep. James Talarico, who marketed himself as a more moderate candidate to take on Republicans in the Lone Star State.
The two-term congresswoman’s decision not to run for re-election in her district came after its geographical boundaries were redrawn to be more red-leaning.
Crockett’s office did not return Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
