Mike Honda: “in the nine months since we lost the irrepressible Congresswoman Patsy Takemoto Mink, my colleagues and communities…”

“in the nine months since we lost the irrepressible Congresswoman Patsy Takemoto Mink, my colleagues and communities across the Nation have celebrated the incredible ``firsts'' and the numerous battles that Patsy waged on the behalf of Americans who needed a voice in federal policymaking the most. Congresswoman Mink's record as an advocate for civil rights is unassailable, a crowing achievement being the passage of Title IX of the federal education amendments in 1972. This landmark legislation banned gender discrimination in schools, both in academic and athletics. She awakened all of our social consciousness through her tireless advocacy, work and dedication; inspiring students, community leaders, political appointees and especially elected officials of the Asian Pacific American communities and beyond. Anyone who was fortunate enough to have been touched by her life knows that this nation has lost a true warrior in the constant struggle for justice. We will all miss her counsel and guidance, as well as her friendship. Patsy Mink was there at the beginning of many things. She was born at the time when women and minorities were not given fair opportunities to achieve their dreams. She remains a role model for countless women, as well as those of us from the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. Though she is not physically present, her spirit and legacy will live on through those of us who believe that the fight for fairness and equity is never over.”