Source: Marcus Ingram / Getty
We are sad to report that Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, the long-serving Democratic congresswoman from Texas who served as a prominent voice for Black Americans, passed away on Friday (July 19) at the age of 74.
Her family issued a statement, posted on her social media accounts:
— Sheila Jackson Lee (@JacksonLeeTX18) July 20, 2024
“A fierce champion of the people, she was affectionately and simply known as ‘Congresswoman’ by her constituents in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service to their daily lives for more than 30 years. A local, national, and international humanitarian, she was acknowledged worldwide for her courageous fights for racial justice, criminal justice, and human rights, with a special emphasis on women and children.
“Her legislative victories impacted millions, from establishing the Juneteenth Federal Holiday to reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act. However, she impacted us most as our beloved wife, sister, mother, and Bebe (grandmother). She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire all who believe in freedom, justice, and democracy.”
Just last month, Rep. Jackson Lee (representing Texas’ 18th Congressional District) announced that she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. At the time, she said that “the road ahead will not be easy,” but she had “faith that God will strengthen me.”
Condolences began to flood X (formerly Twitter) Friday night from her congressional colleagues and other admirers of her tireless work.
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I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee. She was a legend.
My thoughts are with her family, friends, and all who loved her.
— Yamiche Alcindor (@Yamiche) July 20, 2024
Sheila Jackson Lee was a force. I am grateful for the time I spent with her, a historic Texas fighter. She gave so much to this city and state, and we are eternally grateful.
Congresswoman would want us to fight like hell to win this November. So we must, for SJL
pic.twitter.com/OEMKVYyIlD
— Olivia Julianna
(@0liviajulianna) July 20, 2024
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was a fierce advocate for Houston and her constituents. No one worked harder for her community and if Houston needed something, she got it done.
Her passing is a great loss and my condolences go to her family, friends and the people of Houston. pic.twitter.com/4CBOAVGQu9
— Colin Allred (@ColinAllredTX) July 20, 2024
Please find my statement on the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee:
I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. From City Hall to the Halls of Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee has served her constituents well. st… pic.twitter.com/uv5e8dabrH
— Sylvester Turner (@SylvesterTurner) July 20, 2024
I have never known a harder-working political leader than Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who studied every bill and every amendment with exactitude and then told Texas and America exactly where she stood.
— Rep. Jamie Raskin (@RepRaskin) July 20, 2024
Funeral arrangements are pending. May she rest in power.
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