Political Quotes

“Sadly, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Rita Semel, whose passing yesterday at the age of 104 is a profound loss for San Francisco and for all who believe in the power of dialogue, understanding, and justice. For decades, Rita was one of the great moral forces of our community, bringing people together of different faiths, backgrounds, and perspectives in pursuit of peace, dignity, and respect for all of God's children. Through her extraordinary leadership of the San Francisco Interfaith Council, and working with Michael Pappas, who is the executive director she respected so much, and whose birthday is today--she left us yesterday; his birthday is today. Across countless civic and charitable causes, Rita helped make our city more compassionate, more united, and more hopeful. Mr. Speaker, we join so many in mourning Rita's passing and celebrating her remarkable life and legacy. May Rita's memory be a blessing. May she rest in peace.”