Kamala Harris Eulogizes Sheila Jackson Lee
Vice President Kamala Harris and other prominent figures honor the legacy of Sheila Jackson Lee, highlighting her contributions to American democracy and civil rights.
Published August 02, 2024 - 00:08am
Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a eulogy at the funeral of former Democratic Texas Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, who passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer. The event took place in Houston, bringing together family, friends, and dignitaries to honor Jackson Lee's extensive legacy and service to the nation.
Jackson Lee, a fierce advocate for civil rights and women's rights, represented her Houston-based district in Congress for nearly three decades. Among her many accomplishments, she played an instrumental role in making Juneteenth a federal holiday and reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act. Harris, who had developed a close personal friendship with Jackson Lee, underscored her unrelenting spirit and commitment to justice.
The eulogy was a significant moment for Harris, who recently stepped into the role of the likely 2024 Democratic presidential nominee. She emphasized the influence Jackson Lee had on her career and on American society at large. Harris remarked, Sheila Jackson Lee was a fierce champion for justice and a dear friend. Everything she did, Sheila Jackson Lee worked with all her heart. She truly was a force of nature. Despite a minor slip of the tongue where she referred to herself as the 'president,' Harris's words resonated deeply with the audience.
Former President Bill Clinton also spoke at the service, praising Jackson Lee's dedication to American democracy. He recalled her presence on his 'just say yes' list during his presidency, indicating her effectiveness in advocating for crucial legislative measures. Clinton highlighted that Jackson Lee was a staunch believer in equality and democracy, contributing significantly to the nation's longest-lasting democratic traditions.
Services for Jackson Lee began earlier in the week, with hundreds paying their respects as her body lay in state at Houston's City Hall. President Joe Biden visited her family and honored her contributions, particularly in the realms of social justice and civil rights.
Community leaders also remembered Jackson Lee's unwavering dedication to public service. Judson Robinson III, former Houston City Council member and president of the Houston Area Urban League, commended her leadership in pushing forward tough legislation, including efforts toward reparations and the establishment of Juneteenth as a national holiday. Harry Johnson, chair of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington, D.C., recounted her pivotal role in securing the memorial's congressional approval.
Kamala Harris's eulogy for Sheila Jackson Lee captured the essence of Jackson Lee's legacy as a relentless advocate for justice. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash, described her as one of the 'first progressive women of color to have a national platform,' and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., referred to her as a 'social justice legend.' Their remarks collectively painted a portrait of a congresswoman who was not only committed to her constituents but also to the broader cause of equality and civil rights.
The memorial service also served as a platform for Kamala Harris to reinforce the values and principles that Jackson Lee stood for, using the occasion to inspire others to continue the fight for justice and equality. In her concluding remarks, Harris stated, To honor her memory, let us continue to fight to realize the promise of America, a promise of freedom, opportunity, and justice, not just for some but for all.
Jackson Lee's legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence American politics and social justice movements. Her work has left an indelible mark on the nation, and her spirit will be carried forward by those who strive to uphold the values she so passionately championed.