By Ken Epstein

On Dec. 17, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-12) delivered her final remarks on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives as a member of Congress.

“For 26 years now, it has been the privilege of my lifetime to serve my incredible constituents of California’s 12^th Congressional district,” said Lee.

Lee has been a member of Congress for over 25 years. During a quarter century of service, she has been a fierce advocate in the fights for peace, equity, and justice.

She is the highest-ranking Black woman appointed to Democratic Leadership, serving as co-chair of the Policy and Steering Committee. She also serves as the ranking member of the House Appropriations subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations.

“As I look back on my time, I feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to not only serve my community but to advance justice, equity, and peace throughout our country and the entire world,” continued Lee.

On the House floor, many Congressmembers spoke about Lee’s legacy and her accomplishments. They also shared memories of working with her.

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12) said, “Your determination, and what I’ve watched you do, has changed this institution forever. You have this amazing momentum and movement around talking about poverty. Congress wasn’t ready for people like us.”

“You pushed against the stigma in health disparities of our neighbors living with HIV and AIDS when it was unpopular. You helped end the discriminatory Hyde Amendment that restricted access to abortion care when some people in this chamber wouldn’t even say abortion,” Tlaib continued. “You have done so much for all of the incredible residents of City of Oakland and its surrounding communities.”

Speaking to Lee on the floor, Congresswoman Lucy McBath (D-GA-07) said, “Congresswoman Lee, you’re more than a servant leader. You are an example by which countless women of color can seek to emulate as they step up to be the voices of our communities. You are unabashed in speaking truth to power and unwavering in your convictions. You have never been afraid to stand up and speak out, even when the odds are against you. You inspire me each and every day.”

Said Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL-07). “You have done so much great work over your time in Washington and in Congress. I want to thank you for guiding so many of us through the appropriations process. But when I think about being effective, your record is bar none.”  \

Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY-20) said, “Barbara Lee has been a progressive champion, a fierce advocate and dear friend during my time in Congress. Your efforts in this body will be remembered — your courage, your tenacity and your strength of spirit. You have dedicated your time as an elected representative to serving those in need, the voiceless.”

Concluding, Lee said:

“Let me once again thank everyone: all of my colleagues, but especially my constituents who I consider the most enlightened, most diverse, and most progressive. Thanks for giving me the faith and trust to fight alongside you for a better tomorrow.”

Ken Epstein

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