Norton Releases Remarks from House Floor in Support of Bill to Hold Annual Soap Box Derby on Capitol Grounds

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) released her remarks, as prepared for delivery, from speaking on the House floor yesterday for a bill to authorize use of Capitol grounds for the annual Greater Washington Soap Box Derby.

“This event has become a great tradition in the District of Columbia metropolitan area over the last 25 years,” Norton said. “It provides a terrific opportunity for children to appreciate the work necessary to build the vehicles and enjoy the thrill of competition.”

Norton’s full statement follows, as prepared for delivery.

Statement of the Honorable Eleanor Homes Norton

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee

In Support of House Concurrent Resolution 43

Greater Washington Soap Box Derby

June  5, 2023

M.___ Speaker, today we are considering House Concurrent Resolution 43, to authorize use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby.  I would like to thank Representative Hoyer for introducing this resolution.  The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby is an annual competitive event that encourages children, ages 9 through 16, to construct and race their own soap box vehicles on Capitol grounds. 

This event has become a great tradition in the District of Columbia metropolitan area over the last 25 years.  It provides a terrific opportunity for children to appreciate the work necessary to build the vehicles and enjoy the thrill of competition.

TheGreater Washington Soap Box Derbyorganizers will work with the Architect of the Capitol and the Capitol Police to ensure the appropriate rules and regulations are in place and that the event remains free to the public.     

I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

I reserve the balance of my time.

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