Sheila Jackson Lee, a 74-year-old Democratic congressman and longtime supporter of Black Lives Matter, passed away.
At the age of 74, Democratic congressman from Texas and a well-known supporter of African Americans, US Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, passed away.
Her family released a statement describing her as “a fierce champion of the people, who was affectionately and simply known as ‘Congresswoman’ by her constituents in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service to their daily lives for over 30 years.”
Who was Sheila Jackson Lee?
On January 12, 1950, Jackson Lee was born in Queens, New York. She was a trailblazer in both academia and politics, being the first female Yale University graduate. She held positions as a councilwoman in the Houston City Council and a judge in the Houston Municipal Courts prior to her time in Congress.
She created history in 1994 when she upset a Democratic incumbent in the primary and went on to win the Texas 18th Congressional District seat, which she has held ever since.
She revealed last month that pancreatic cancer was her diagnosis.
She had previously fought breast cancer; in 2011, she was diagnosed, and the following year, she declared herself cancer-free.
Her office stated, “A local, national, and international humanitarian, she was recognized globally for her brave battles for criminal justice, human rights, and racial justice, with a particular focus on women and children.”
Jackson Lee held judicial positions prior to her time in Congress. In 1989, she won an at-large Houston City Council seat.
She launched a disastrous mayoral race in Houston last year, losing handily to Democratic state senator John Whitmire, before declaring her intention to run for Congress again.
“Her legislative victories impacted millions, from establishing the Juneteenth Federal Holiday to reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act,” the office said.
Nevertheless, the message went on, “She affected us most as our cherished wife, sister, mother, and Bebe (grandmother).”
“While her passing will be deeply felt, her legacy will live on and inspire people who value democracy, justice, and freedom.” May God richly reward you, Congresswoman, and the United States of America.
