Christopher Shays: “I have found the most patriotic people in our black churches, and it always amazed me how the African-American community…”

“I have found the most patriotic people in our black churches, and it always amazed me how the African-American community could be so patriotic, given the heritage that brought them to this magnificent country. And Barbara Jordan gave me more pride in our country than I think almost anyone else. You talk about what an extraordinary leader. I consider her an extraordinary teacher. I remember her in my early days, watching her as a new Member, and I was astounded by this woman. Now, I know the gentlewoman from Texas is from Texas, but people from Texas are different than anywhere else. Finding this black Texan talking, I was not first sure if she was a Texan first, or someone speaking for the black community first, or just someone speaking as a true American. I resolved my question mark. She was just a true American patriot who wanted to teach this American community a lot, and in the process she taught herself a lot. Her death is a tremendous loss.”