Bill Pascrell: “Ladies and gentlemen, the House has lost a real advocate, a person who respected this institution and who understood…”

“Ladies and gentlemen, the House has lost a real advocate, a person who respected this institution and who understood what it was. So I know I speak for all of us when I say our condolences to the family and our condolences to his constituents. He served most distinctly. Rather than tell you some things I was going to prepare myself about my relationship with Donald, I got a letter this afternoon, and I think it's appropriate if I read this letter on the floor of the House because it tells us that Donald Payne was not just interested in Africa. His interests as a humanitarian went beyond that. Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams has spoken of the deep sadness at the death of United States Congressman Donald Payne. On behalf of Sinn Fein, and all of those in Ireland who met Congressman Payne on his many visits here, the Sinn Fein leader extended his deepest sympathy to Congressman Payne's children and his family circle and many friends. And this is what Gerry's own words are: Donald Payne was a champion for the disadvantaged and the downtrodden in the United States and around the world. He devoted his life to promoting civil rights, equality and democracy. My friends, just think who is saying this. A man of valor, a very courageous person, Gerry Adams. This is how close we are in the tribe of humanity and how many times we fail to recognize it. I met Donald many times both in Washington and in Ireland.…”