Missouri state Representative Justin Hicks, a black Republican, received a round of applause from lawmakers for identifying as an “American” during a heated debate on the state House floor in late March.

The discussion over diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives turned tense when Democratic state Representative Marlene Terry attacked Hicks for supporting House Bill 6, which would prohibit state funds from being used for DEI-related initiatives.

Terry started by questioning Hick about how he identifies. “Can I ask you what you identify as?” Terry asked Hicks. “Ethnicity.”

“I identify as an American,” Hicks replied, and the room erupted in applause.