Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to the time remaining.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, in continuance of honoring the life and legacy of Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, I wish to highlight her unflinching devotion to the American people. No matter how daunting it was or had seemed to onlookers to be the first and only Black woman in Congress, Congresswoman Chisholm rightfully earned the nickname ``Fighting Shirley'' for her determination in empowering underserved communities. She fought hard and fast for the least represented in the United States, introduced over 50 pieces of legislation geared toward reviving her constituents and the Nation's, and relieving them of injustice. She was regarded as being deeply in touch with the Nation as she advocated for policies that uplifted citizens out of poverty and empowered them through job training and education. She advocated for our veterans and introduced legislation to increase their benefits so that those who served our country would not suffer from inflation. Her determination to create a nation where every American could succeed lives through us all. Let us continue to honor her legacy by continuing the fight to deliver justice for the American people. It is my honor to be here today serving in the CBC. Because of Shirley Chisholm we women are here today. The CBC has over 31 women who are in Congress today, increasing in the next Congress. We are here today, each one of us, holding a piece of Shirley Chisholm, hoping to actually fulfill her dream of one day pushing this Nation forward, where all of our children and the American people can live together in a city and in every nation where we have equality, justice, and a clear education for everyone. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Jackson), my co-chair.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I thank Jonathan Jackson for that passionate speech. Mr. Speaker, today we recognize Shirley Chisholm's tireless commitment to justice and equal opportunity. During her time in office, Congresswoman Chisholm consistently fought against racial discrimination and systemic inequalities endured by all African Americans. She was a vocal supporter of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Fair Housing Act of 1968, working to create an America where everyone could thrive regardless of race. She was a trailblazer who fought for the inclusion of women and African Americans in positions of power. Her election to Congress inspired generations of Black women, showing them that they, too, could hold public office. Shirley Chisholm has a special place in my heart, being a Caribbean woman born in Brooklyn, raised in Queens, and later moved to Florida. Seeing her do that inspired all women to know that was possible. Today in Congress, we proudly stand 31 strong Black women, and we are about to welcome the highest number of Black women in history for the 119th Congress. Congresswoman Chisholm advocated for economic opportunities for marginalized communities, believing economic mobility was key for empowering African Americans and building a strong America. Her tireless commitment to underserved communities is still inspiring today. As we honor Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, we must continue to uphold her values and strive to create the America she envisioned. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, before we close, I once again recognize Barbara Lee for all her hard work in Congress. It is so fitting that we celebrate 100 years of Shirley Chisholm and have Barbara Lee with us. She will be sorely missed. I know Shirley Chisholm is looking down right now and is so proud of Barbara. Because of Barbara Lee and her mentorship, we have a sisterhood in Congress with the CBC women, a sisterhood, a bond that can't be broken. I thank Barbara Lee for her mentorship, her sisterhood, for everything she has done. I can't help but think that Shirley Chisholm is looking down at all of us and saying how proud she is that we have gotten here. We have a lot of work to do. What she started has to be finished, I hope by our generation, by working together and all of us recognizing her hard work on both sides. Mr. Speaker, you have heard from my distinguished colleagues about Ms. Shirley Chisholm, all issues of great importance to the Congressional Black Caucus, our constituents, Congress, and all Americans. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include any extraneous material on the subject of this Special Order hour.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise today to anchor this CBC Special Order hour. For the next 12 minutes and 30 seconds, Members of the CBC have an opportunity to discuss the importance of Suicide Prevention Month, an issue of great importance to the Congressional Black Caucus, Congress, the constituents we represent, and all Americans. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Carter).

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to the time remaining?

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Suicide Prevention Month to bring attention to a deeply troubling issue affecting our Nation: racial disparities in suicide rates, particularly among Black youth. According to the recent data from the CDC, the suicide rate among Black youth aged 10 through 19 climbed by a staggering 54 percent between 2018 and 2022, exceeding, for the first time, that of their White peers. In my home State of Florida, where the suicide rate among Black teens is the third highest in the country, the need to address this crisis is especially urgent. Black youth are also significantly less likely to receive the mental health support they need as they face stigma and mistrust toward the healthcare system. Racial discrimination, economic disenfranchisement, and the lack of culturally competent mental health services fuels disparities and creates barriers to accessing care, even when it is available. We have long understood suicide prevention and mental health initiatives to be public health interventions that benefit all Americans. It pains me to see such drastic disparities within these communities. As Black youth suicide rates continue to climb, investments in cultural competence training, mental health screenings, research, and resources are desperately needed. By taking these steps, we can ensure those at risk are connected to the appropriate accessible and culturally sensitive care they need and deserve. Lastly, we need to do more research into the specific risk factors affecting Black youth. Understanding the full scope of the problem is essential to developing practical solutions. Federal funding for studies that explore how stigma, cultural identity, and community engagement influence suicide risk in the Black community is long overdue. These studies will guide us in crafting policies and interventions that are both targeted and effective. The importance of prevention and awareness cannot be understated. This Suicide Prevention Month, we must reaffirm our commitment to addressing the disparities in mental health head-on and ensure that no youth's life is lost to a preventable cause. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time is remaining.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Jackson), my co-anchor.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the subject of this Special Order hour.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise today to anchor the CBC Special Order hour. For the next 60 minutes, members of the CBC have an opportunity to honor Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, an individual of great importance to the Congressional Black Caucus, Congress, the constituents we represent, and all Americans. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Nevada (Mr. Horsford).

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Clarke).

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from the Fourth Congressional District of Georgia (Mr. Johnson).

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from the Seventh Congressional District of Maryland (Mr. Mfume).

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his comments. Madam Speaker, it is my privilege to yield to the Honorable Assistant Leader Joe Neguse.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, it is now my privilege to yield to the gentlewoman from Massachusetts, Representative Ayanna Pressley.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, it is now my privilege to yield to the gentleman from Louisiana, Mr. Troy Carter.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. The Nation mourns the loss of a tireless advocate for justice and a beacon of hope for so many. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was not just a Member of Congress. She was a force of nature, a relentless champion for civil rights, and a voice for the voiceless. For nearly three decades, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee's work in this Chamber showcased her unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Her reintroduction of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act is just one example of her dedication to fight for equal justice. This bill, which I was so proud to cosponsor, aimed to hold law enforcement accountable, improving training, and rebuilding the trust of the communities they serve. It is a testament to her vision for a fair and more just America. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee believed deeply in the power of the Federal Government to enact meaningful reform. She knew that while no single policy could erase decades of systemic racism, it was imperative to take bold steps toward structural change. Her legacy will be felt in every stride we make toward justice. To me, Sheila Jackson Lee was the originator. We always joked around when she said: She is the first Sheila, and I am the second Sheila. I always said: Sheila, you are the originator. Every time she saw me, she asked if I needed anything. I remember when I last spoke to her, I said: Sheila, you sound strong today. And she said: Sheila, whatever you need, call me. I will be there. If you need to know how to do it, I will show you. She made me a promise. She said: I will always be there. The day she passed, I said: Sheila, we will remember your legacy. She was at every Special Order hour, every single one, and the last one I looked back, and I said: Sheila, are you ready? And she said she couldn't do it. Jonathan held her, and I knew that was the last time. Rest in power, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the new 2024 Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers. I proudly introduced a resolution commending the team for this historic win. June 24, 2024, will forever be reminders of a monumental day for south Florida. For the first time in their 30-year franchise history, the Florida Panthers have won the Stanley Cup, defeating the Edmonton Oilers 2-1 in an exhilarating game 7. For 30 seasons, Florida Panthers fans, myself included, have eagerly waited to see our favorite team raise the Stanley Cup. Led by the outstanding performance of Captain Aleksander Barkov and Head Coach Paul Maurice, our Panthers showcased the very best of south Florida's competitive spirit. I also want to pay tribute to the devoted Panthers fans. Their unwavering support and enthusiasm were crucial in propelling the players forward game after game to finally finish the hunt. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the players, coaches, staff, and the entire Panthers organization. Let's bring the cup home again next year. As always, go Cats.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to commemorate Caribbean American Heritage Month, a time to recognize the profound historical significance and impact of Caribbean Americans on the history and development of the United States. Caribbean Americans have played a pivotal role since the earliest days of our Nation's history. One of the most notable figures was Alexander Hamilton, born in Nevis, whose vision and intellect helped lay the foundation of our financial system and set forth the course for America's economic future. During the 20th century, Shirley Chisholm, the daughter of Barbadian and Guyanese immigrants, emerged as a trailblazer in American politics. During the same time, Malcolm X, a transformative civil rights leader whose roots trace back to Grenada, advocated for Black power and economic autonomy. His work has inspired individuals to strive for a more just and equitable society. Next, we honor Puerto Rican-born Dr. Antonia Novello, a trailblazer in the field of public health who broke barriers as the first female and first Hispanic United States Surgeon General. She worked to improve health conditions and access to medical care, particularly for women, children, and underrepresented communities. Finally, we celebrate the Cuban-born Celia Cruz, also known as the Queen of Salsa. Cruz not only captivated audiences but also enriched American music by popularizing salsa and creating a cultural bridge that we continue to enjoy and appreciate today. In my home State of Florida, the historical significance of Caribbean Americans is particularly evident. In the early 20th century, waves of Caribbean immigrants arrived in Florida, playing a crucial role in developing industries such as agriculture and tourism, which remain vital to Florida's economy today. For example, the construction of the Overseas Railroad in the early 1900s was made possible by the labor of many Caribbean workers. The railroad connected the Florida Keys to the mainland and transformed the region's economic landscape. Let us celebrate this heritage with the recognition it deserves and a commitment to ensuring that the contributions of Caribbean Americans continue to be acknowledged and celebrated for generations to come.

Mrs. CHERFILUS-McCORMICK. Mr. Speaker, I thank my co-anchor, who I think, is an honorary Haitian for all his advocacy. Mr. Speaker, today we come to the floor to celebrate Caribbean Heritage Month. It is a time to honor Caribbean Americans' vibrant culture and invaluable contributions to our Nation. It is significant in my home State of Florida where the Caribbean diaspora thrives and flourishes. As someone of Haitian descent, my heritage provides me with strength and resilience, traits passed down through the generations of Caribbean people who have faced and conquered tremendous challenges. Caribbean Americans have been at the forefront of advocacy and leadership in politics. From city councils to the Halls of Congress, we have raised our voices to champion civil rights, social justice, and equality for all. Moreover, Caribbean Americans are innovators and pioneers. From the groundbreaking research of Dr. Patricia Bath, a pioneering ophthalmologist of Trinidadian descent, to the literary genius of Jamaica Kincaid from Antigua, our contributions to science, literature, and the arts have profoundly impacted the entire world. These achievements are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity that are the hallmarks of our heritage. In recognizing the importance of Caribbean American Heritage Month, we acknowledge that our diversity is, in fact, our strength. It is a reminder that the United States thrives when we embrace and celebrate the unique cultures and histories that make up our entire Nation.