In two thousand two, he was a major force in writing the Sudan Peace Act. The Act provided efforts for food aid to the nation as well as work on settling the conflict. In two thousand four, he urged members of Congress and the American government to declare the killings in the Darfur region of Sudan as genocide.

President Obama praised the work of Congressman Payne. Mr. Obama said Donald Payne made great moves toward human rights protection and democracy throughout Africa.

The United States Agency for International Development is honoring Mister Payne. The agency is creating a new financial program designed to persuade young people to work in international development. The fellowship will urge members of minority groups to consider working in development organizations. The U.S.A.I.D. Donald Payne Development Fellowship will provide support for graduate school, professional development and entry into USAID’s Foreign Service.

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Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

JUNE SIMMS: Every year the city of Houston, Texas, reconnects with its rural roots and cowboy past. This week, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is taking place in the city. Mario Ritter takes us there.

MARIO RITTER: The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo starts with a big parade. Horses take the place of cars on the streets of America’s fourth largest city. One woman expressed surprise.

WOMAN VISITOR: “So, we’ve never seen so many cowboys and cows and horses all together with all the trail wagons.”