On the recordJuly 22, 2020
It is difficult to express the immense loss and pain that not just myself but that this body feels at the passing of our good friend, John Lewis. It has been one of my greatest honors and privileges to be able to serve alongside him in my short time here in this body and to get to know him. He brought to us courage. He inspired love and gave us optimism in some of the most difficult times. He worked with joy in his heart, with courage and faith, and without fear. He was a fighter against injustice to anyone. I remember him saying that he was inspired to see the young men and women of all backgrounds, creeds, and religious backgrounds rise up in nonviolent protest, demanding justice. I wonder if he knows that he started that back in 1965 in Selma, Alabama. My kids, Jude and Siena, every time they came to Washington, they always sought out John Lewis because they looked up to him, just like all of us did. It is silly that I am crying, Madam Speaker. I just met him a year ago. I think it is because, during some of the most difficult moments in our country, we can't afford to lose someone like him. But I am so inspired today to hear my colleagues stand together in unity, and I know, and I am filled with optimism, that we will be able to exemplify his work, continue his work, and carry his dream of a better America forward.
