President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to visit Houston this week to pay their respects to the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Jackson Lee, who passed away on July 19 after battling pancreatic cancer, was a prominent figure in Texas politics and a staunch advocate for progressive causes. The visits by Biden and Harris highlight the significant impact Jackson Lee had on her community and the nation.
Honoring a Legacy
Sheila Jackson Lee served as a U.S. Representative for Texas’s 18th congressional district for over 30 years. Known for her relentless advocacy for civil rights, women’s rights, and disaster relief, Jackson Lee was a beloved figure in her district and beyond. Her work on legislation, including the law that made Juneteenth a national holiday, showcased her dedication to justice and equality. Jackson Lee’s passing has left a void in the political landscape, but her legacy continues to inspire many.
President Biden will visit Houston on Monday to pay his respects at Houston City Hall, where Jackson Lee will lie in state. This visit underscores the deep respect and admiration Biden had for Jackson Lee, who he described as a “tenacious advocate for justice and a tireless fighter for the people of Houston and America.” The president’s visit is expected to be a solemn occasion, with a brief prayer service and an opportunity for the public to pay their final respects.
A Celebration of Life
Vice President Kamala Harris will attend a Celebration of Life Service for Jackson Lee on Thursday at Fallbrook Church. Harris, who has called Jackson Lee a “dear friend,” will deliver remarks at the service, highlighting the congresswoman’s contributions and the personal bond they shared. Both Harris and Jackson Lee were members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, a historically Black sorority, and worked together on various legislative initiatives.
The Celebration of Life Service will be attended by numerous dignitaries, including former President Bill Clinton, former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The service will be livestreamed, allowing people from across the country to join in honoring Jackson Lee’s life and legacy. Harris’s presence at the service marks her third visit to Texas in the past month, reflecting her commitment to supporting the communities and causes Jackson Lee championed.
A Community in Mourning
The passing of Sheila Jackson Lee has deeply affected the Houston community. For many, she was not just a congresswoman but a friend, mentor, and advocate. Her tireless work on behalf of her constituents earned her the respect and admiration of people from all walks of life. The events this week, including the lying in state and the Celebration of Life Service, provide an opportunity for the community to come together and remember the impact Jackson Lee had on their lives.
Jackson Lee’s dedication to her community was evident in her response to disasters like Hurricane Harvey, where she worked tirelessly to secure aid and support for those affected. Her efforts in advocating for women’s rights and social justice have left a lasting legacy that will continue to influence future generations. As the community mourns her loss, they also celebrate the remarkable life and achievements of a woman who dedicated her life to making a difference.
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