File this under better late than never: The United States House of Representatives issued a formal apology yesterday to African-Americans for the “‘fundamental injustice, cruelty, brutality, and inhumanity’ of slavery and the legal segregation of African-Americans.” The apology also came with a promise that the lawmakers are committed to righting all “lingering consequences” of said policies that still permeate our nation. House Resolution 194, was first introduced by Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tennessee, pictured), who has an actual picture of Elvis on his homepage , so you know he loves blacks. His heartfelt quote after the jump:

“Apologies are not empty gestures, but are a necessary first step towards any sort of reconciliation between people,” said Cohen, who represents the area of Memphis, Tennessee.

Cynical AFP news service notes that the white Cohen is facing tough opposition from a black candidate seeking to replace him next term amongst his majority black constituency. Isn’t that democracy in action?

US lawmakers apologize for slavery [AFP]
Congressman Cohen’s Slavery Apology Resolution Passes the House of Representatives [Congressman Steve Cohen Official Website]