Sheila Jackson Lee: “I have often come to this floor to remind my colleagues of the devastation that the people of Texas have experienced…”

“I have often come to this floor to remind my colleagues of the devastation that the people of Texas have experienced with Hurricane Harvey. I certainly don't intend to ignore our other friends in the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Florida, and California who have experienced their own devastation, along with Louisiana. But I am excited today, Mr. Speaker, because I am introducing a bill that celebrates the history of Texas. H.R. 4745 is the emancipation national historic trail. Many people know that the Emancipation Proclamation was not heard in Texas but for 2 years later in 1865. This emancipation national historic trail recounts the journey of many of those individuals: freed slaves going from the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston, Texas; along Texas State Highway 3, Interstate Highway 45 North, Freedmen's Town, and Emancipation Park in Houston, Texas; following the migration route of newly freed slaves and other persons of African descent; from the major 19th century seaport of Galveston. It is a collaboration with people from both parties throughout the community. It is one of unity, Mr. Speaker. It is one where we are coming together. I look forward to passing this legislation with my colleagues-- Republicans and Democrats--because it is a celebration of the history of Texas. ____________________”