Sheila Jackson Lee: “With humility, gratitude, and a broken heart, I rise to anchor this Congressional Black Caucus Special Order in…”

“With humility, gratitude, and a broken heart, I rise to anchor this Congressional Black Caucus Special Order in remembrance of Congressman Alcee Hastings, senior member of the Committee on Rules, a man who travelled the world leading congressional delegations to defend, protect, and strengthen democracies while serving as Chair of the Helsinki Commission, a highly respected and valued member of the Congressional Black Caucus, one of this House's greatest debaters, one of the first three African Americans elected to this body from Florida since Reconstruction, a member of Congress for 28 years, my mentor, a beloved colleague, and dear friend who died Tuesday, April 6, 2021, at the age of 84. Madam Speaker, Alcee Hastings, who was affectionately referred to by his colleagues and constituents as ``Judge Hastings,'' was a statesman and strong supporter of equality, economic and social justice, civil rights, Israel, and human dignity for all. He took to heart and lived the admonition he received from his father as a young child'' ``Be your own boss man,'' who through it all was his own man as he blazed trails and pioneered paths to improve the lives and life chances of the was so honored to serve. Alcee Lamar Hastings was born September 5, 1936, in Altamonte Springs, to Julius Hastings, a butler, and Mildred nee Merritt, a maid.…”