Sewell will be joined by the Curry Family of Selma whose home of 50 years was destroyed by the January 12th storms

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that her special guests for President Biden’s 2023 State of the Union address will be the Curry Family of Selma, Alabama. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and Annie Curry lost their home of 50 years as a result of the devastating storms that struck Alabama on January 12th.

“I am honored to have the Curry Family of Selma join me as my special guests for President Biden’s 2023 State of the Union Address,” said Rep. Sewell.“Tragically, the devastating January 12th storms completely destroyed the Currys’ home of over 50 years, displacing them from the place where they raised their five beautiful children." 

“The people of Alabama’s 7th District are strong, and the Curry Family is no exception,” continued Sewell. “The Currys’ presence is emblematic of the resilience of Selmians and will put a spotlight on the dire needs of Selma and Dallas County and our request for additional federal assistance.”

Mr. Thomas Curry was born in Selma, Alabama in 1936. He has served in the United States Air Force for over 30 years, holding multiple leadership positions including Chief Master Sergeant and Pacific Air Forces Executive Manager for Air Force Chapels. His wife, Mrs. Annie Curry, was born in Summerton, South Carolina in 1930. She spent over two decades as a classroom teacher and counselor including 10 years at Selma High School. Thomas and Annie Curry have been married for over 60 years. They have five children and seven grandchildren.

Tragically, the January 12th tornado completely destroyed the Currys’ home of over 50 years, displacing them from the place where they raised their five children. The house has been completely lost, and the Currys are considering their options for rebuilding. 

On January 26, Rep. Sewell led the Alabama Congressional Delegation in a letter to President Biden requesting that he increase federal assistance to the communities impacted by the January 12th storms by raising the federal cost share for FEMA public assistance—including debris removal and emergency protective measures—to 100%. 

President Biden’s 2023 State of the Union address will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, February 7 at 8:00 p.m. CT.