Mark Takano: “I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the passion of a dear…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the passion of a dear friend, a colleague, a personal hero of mine, Congressman John Lewis. Mr. Lewis often spoke of building a beloved community, one that required us to get into ``good trouble'' to achieve. His vision for America and her world was one of justice, equality, and compassion for one another. During dark times, his strength and his optimism lit the way to a path forward that brought us closer to justice. During doubtful times, his words and his wisdom inspired confidence that progress was still in reach. And during this difficult time for our country, as we mourn his death, may the life and the legacy he left behind inspire us to keep building that beloved community. John Lewis, you taught me that optimism is a moral duty, and now that you are gone, sir, I will no longer have you around to remind me to keep the faith. I will have to do that all by myself. {time} 2030”