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Congressional Daily Record
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July 14, 2026
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Download official Extensions PDFReturn to issue contextHONORING MICHAEL CHERRY ON HIS JOINING THE ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE
THEATER
HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW
of virginia
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael Cherry, a constituent from Springfield, Virginia, upon joining the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, widely regarded as one of the most celebrated dance companies in the world.
established by choreographer, dancer, and visionary Alvin Ailey to uplift the African American experience while transcending the boundaries of race, faith, and nationality with its universal humanity. Recognized as a vital American Cultural Ambassador to the World, the company has performed for an estimated 25 million people in 71 countries on 6 continents.
choreographers, it stands today as the largest modern dance company in the United States. To join this company is among the highest honors a dancer can achieve, and it is an honor that Michael Cherry has earned through years of exceptional dedication, training, and artistry.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance with a minor in Arts Management. George Mason has long been a launchpad for professional artists, and Michael's career is a testament to the quality of training and mentorship he received there.
breadth. During his training and early career, he had the opportunity to perform in works created or set by an impressive roster of renowned choreographers, including Rafael Bonachela, Camille A. Brown, Rena Butler, Alejandro Cerrudo, and Doug Varone, among others.
including the Juilliard Summer Dance Intensive, the Complexions Summer and Winter Intensives, and the LINES Ballet Summer Program.
Complexions Contemporary Ballet, where he continued to grow as a versatile and technically sophisticated performer.
Michael is no exception. I want to take this opportunity to extend heartfelt recognition to his mother, Susan Cherry, whose steadfast love, sacrifice, and encouragement have been a constant source of strength throughout Michael's life and career. Equally deserving of recognition is Michael's brother, Brandon Cherry, whose steadfast support and brotherly encouragement have meant the world to Michael throughout this journey.
Mr. Speaker, Virginia's 11th Congressional District is home to remarkable individuals who reflect the very best of who we are as a Nation. Michael Cherry is one of those individuals.
this tremendous achievement, and in wishing Michael a career filled with brilliance, purpose, and joy.