Jasmine Crockett

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, on the last day of 2023, Texas' 30th Congressional District laid to rest a legend who served in this Chamber and was a champion of the Lone Star State: Chairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson passed away. As her successor representing Texas' 30th Congressional District, I see the impact of her 30-year tenure in Congress and her half century legacy of public service everywhere I look. Whether it was securing millions of dollars in public investment to north Texas, to the thousands of jobs she helped to create under the Chips and Science Act, she led with conviction and passion. As Chairwoman of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, she was unapologetic in advocating for Texas as the future of space exploration. Thanks to her leadership, Texas is helping us go back to the Moon and beyond and has transformed into a technological powerhouse. I have described Chairwoman Johnson as a quiet storm. She didn't need to make a lot of noise to create change, and through her tireless work for equality and equity, she made space for louder storms, like me, to continue her work. Every member of the Texas delegation can remember a time when the chairwoman put politics aside and crossed the aisle in order to advance and better the lives of the people of the Lone Star State and American families across the country. The country and delegation have lost a giant, but her work and legacy will continue to live on. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I ask that all those who are present in the Chamber as well as Members and staff throughout the Capitol please rise for a moment of silence to remember the late Honorable Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, for the past 12 days, the people of Texas and those serving in this Chamber have been mourning the loss of a leader, a colleague, and an advocate for change--the late Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson. She was a leader who never let political differences come at the expense of public service and regularly reached across the aisle to promote policies that advanced access to healthcare and helped our Nation dominate in technological and scientific innovation. Chairwoman Johnson was a champion of bipartisanship, and from the Texas delegation to her colleagues on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, there are many people in this building that have benefited from her wisdom, experience, generosity, and mentorship. I can personally say that the Texas delegation has a well-earned reputation for bipartisanship, and we continue to honor the chairwoman's legacy by finding areas where we can meet each other halfway to get things done for the 30 million Texans we are blessed to represent. While I never served with her, I was humbled to be tapped by her as her hand-picked successor. This honor is and will continually be a reminder that I have big shoes--or in the case of the great EBJ, a fancy pair of St. John's--to fill. She believed I could; therefore, I will. Her legacy will continually be held up by me all the days that I serve in this Chamber. There is no better way to give tribute to the chairwoman than by giving space to some of her colleagues to speak about her life and legacy in the many ways she impacted the people's House. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Pelosi), the Speaker Emerita.

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Nevada (Mr. Horsford), the chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Sessions).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Weber).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. Bonamici).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Michigan (Ms. Stevens).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I yield to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur).

Ms. CROCKETT. At this time, Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Oklahoma, Congressman Lucas.

Ms. CROCKETT. Thank you so much, Congressman Lucas. I can recall when she first introduced me to the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Lucas), and she had a genuine affection for their relationship, so I thank the gentleman for his kind words. At this time, Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Houston, Texas (Mr. Green of Texas).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I yield to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Johnson).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I yield to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Payne).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Veasey), who is from the other part of Dallas.

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for her remarks. Mr. Speaker, she is a living legend. We lost her, but she will always live on in the Halls of Congress. Leader Jeffries is unable to be here, but he tells a story that always makes me laugh. He talks about the fact that he and Chairman Horsford as freshmen were called in by Eddie Bernice. She told them: One of you all is going to lead the Special Order hour. So they said: Okay. Yes, ma'am. Of course, they did that. They did whatever she asked of them because she saw leadership in them probably before they saw leadership in themselves. He tells the story about how they led a Special Order hour at the behest of Eddie Bernice Johnson. Leader Jeffries always says that he could count on three people who would be watching: Steven's mom, his mom, and Eddie Bernice Johnson. Mr. Speaker, as I conclude this Special Order hour, I know that if there is one person who is watching as a freshman who had to do this job and lead her first Special Order hour, I know it is Eddie Bernice Johnson. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, every Member here likely knows at least one family in their district whose life has been impacted by someone struggling with addiction. This comes at a time where companies are also now trying to use the courts to avoid liability and escape having to compensate families for their role in targeting communities and peddling pills all in the name of increasing profits. Addiction is painful and it is dangerous. It is a dangerous struggle that too many Americans suffer from. Today, this illness is exacerbated by the prevalence of fentanyl. Fentanyl is 50 percent stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Because people can't see, taste, or smell it, those struggling with addiction don't even know when they are putting their life at risk. To be clear, fentanyl is one of the leading causes of overdose- related deaths today. Now, more than ever, we need to attack this problem from a holistic approach. This is coming from, again, the gentlewoman from the State of Texas. We know that there is not just a one-trick pony on this. We have got to make sure that we address this side of it, as well as our struggles at the border. Not only do we need more technology at our points of entry to interdict fentanyl, but we will also need to give our constituents the necessary tools to know whether or not they are about to subject themselves to fentanyl. One way to do this is to arm them with fentanyl testing strips. I am grateful to Representative Gooden, my Republican co-lead, for supporting my bill, the Test Strip Access Act, to Senators Hassan and Cornyn for introducing it in the Senate, and to the Energy and Commerce Committee for incorporating it into the SUPPORT reauthorization. My bill will allow fentanyl and xylazine testing strips to be purchased under the overdose prevention programs grants. Access to these testing strips can literally mean the difference between life and death. Accordingly, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of the SUPPORT Act so we can give our constituents the tools to be safe and ultimately get them the help they desperately need to treat their illness.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize someone who I not only call a constituent but my pastor and a dear friend--Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III. Pastor Haynes, born in Dallas, TX, has committed his life to not only serving within the walls of his Church--Friendship-West Baptist Church--but has made it his mission to stand up for those without a voice. Specifically, his advocacy and commitment to advancing our community can be seen through his strong continued fight for fair lending practices, advocating for just food policies, seeking much- needed criminal justice reform, and much more. One initiative born from the vision of Dr. Haynes is the successful THRIVE Intern and Leadership Program. During the first year, the Program employed nearly 100 young black males between the ages of 16 through 19. Since its inception, the program has expanded and now employs both young men and women across North Texas. The young people intern with local businesses across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex as well as Friendship-West and are paid at a rate above minimum wage while receiving intentional mentoring and engaging in community service. This program became so successful that Dr. Haynes received recognition from President Barack Obama for the creation and success of the program. Celebrating his 40th Pastoral Anniversary earlier this year, Pastor Haynes has remained a dynamic and powerful teacher of God's word who has been a source of hope and encouragement for many. Through his leadership, Friendship. West has grown its ministry and membership from less than 100 members in 1983 to over 13,000. While there is much to celebrate and commend Pastor Haynes for, I'd be remiss if I didn't extend congratulations and recognition on his recent appointment as the new leader of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, one of the nation's oldest civil rights organizations. Founded in 1971 by Rev. Jesse Jackson, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition has been on the frontlines of working to make the American Dream a reality for all while advocating for peace and justice around the world. Under his leadership, I know that the organization will only grow and reach new heights in its impact on underserved communities. It is safe to say that Pastor Haynes is a coalition builder, social activist, eloquent orator, and someone who has never forgotten about the people. He continues to challenge the status quo and redefine what it means to be a Pastor. The Bible reminds us in 1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV that ``But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, Neither have entered into the heart of man, The things which God hath prepared for them that love him''. I'm convinced that the best is truly yet to come for Pastor Haynes, and I look forward to our continued partnership on the issues pressing our neighbors.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, they say that everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes our pride for our very first World Series win. Yes, I also rise to celebrate the World Series champions, the Texas Rangers. On Wednesday, the Rangers clinched their first World Series win against the Arizona Diamondbacks. I don't mean to rub it in the face of my colleagues from the Grand Canyon State, but we warned you we could-- and we would--come and take it. This week our Rangers went and took it. I was lucky enough to represent north Texas as the first Black Democratic woman to play in the Congressional Baseball Game this year. While I may not have the arm of Josh Sborz or the speed of two-time MVP Corey Seager, you best believe our Rangers have inspired me to score some runs next year. While this may be our first World Series win, mark my words, it will not be our last.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, this Hispanic Heritage Month I lift up the legacy of Santos Rodriguez, a child murdered by police in my home of Dallas, Texas, 50 years ago this year. At only 12 years old, Santos was shot and killed by police in front of his brother in Dallas' Little Mexico district. He was unarmed. Earlier this summer, I hosted a commemoration of Santos in Dallas, celebrating the tireless advocacy of his family in securing justice and change after his senseless murder. In the years since his death, the Rodriguez family and the Latino community of North Texas have built a movement of resilience and strength in his honor. Santos did not come into this world to become a martyr. He simply wanted to live and grow like any other child. Today, I ask that we honor the life and the family of Santos Rodriguez not just with words but with actions. No child should have to lose their life for the world to recognize that their life had meaning. We can and should do better for all, but especially for our kiddos.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, it is with heartfelt sorrow that I rise today to pay tribute to the memory of Santos Rodriguez--a young soul whose life was tragically cut short 50 years ago. On July 24, 1973, this innocent 12-year-old boy from Dallas, Texas, fell victim to an appalling act of violence that shook our Nation's conscience and forever changed the lives of his family and community. On that fateful night, a Dallas police officer z--who was entrusted with protecting and serving the community--took Santos and his brother, David, from their home while responding to a call about a petty theft at a local gas station in the Little Mexico neighborhood. The two brothers were still in their pajamas as they were handcuffed and placed in a police car. In a shocking display of recklessness, the police officer aimed his gun at Santos' head and engaged in a lethal game of Russian roulette. Santos denied any involvement in the crime. Tragically, when the trigger was pulled--the gun fired. Santos was killed as his brother watched from the backseat. On July 24, 1973, young Santos Rodriguez was taken away from his loved ones in a brutal act of violence, shattering the dreams he had yet to fulfill. As the Congressional representative for the Little Mexico neighborhood--what is now known as Uptown--I feel a deep responsibility not only to honor the memory of Santos, but also to stand in solidarity with the Mexican-American community of Dallas as we continue the fight for equality. Santos Rodriguez's story remains a stark reminder of the continued need for oversight within our law enforcement system and the devastating impact of unchecked abuses of power. His untimely death exposed the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities and the profound importance of addressing racial injustice. Residents of the City of Dallas have a right to know the truth of their city. We have a right to live in a city governed by leaders who believe that the only way towards a more equitable future requires us to reconcile with our past. While we remember Santos Rodriguez, let us also honor his memory by recommitting ourselves to creating a safer and more equitable Dallas. In his memory, we must strive for a future where no child or individual lives in fear, where persons in positions of authority are held to the highest standards of integrity, and where the tragedies of our past are never forgotten. In 1973, the story of Santos' murder inspired the Chicano movement in North Texas. In the five decades since that heart-wrenching event, we have seen the community of Dallas and the nation rally together in solidarity to demand change. Santos Rodriguez's memory has become a symbol of resilience inspiring movements for justice, equality, and meaningful police reform. Today, as we solemnly remember Santos, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of justice and fairness, and strive for a society where no life is ever again lost to such senseless acts of violence. May his legacy embolden us to continue our fight for a more inclusive and compassionate nation, where all citizens can trust in the fairness of our law enforcement and justice systems. As we offer our heartfelt condolences to the family of Santos Rodriguez and his loved ones, we must honor his memory by taking concrete steps towards a future where every child's dreams can flourish without fear or prejudice. In his memory, let us strive for a Nation that upholds the values of justice, empathy, and equality for all. I stand with the residents of Dallas as we continue to march forward in a steadfast and unrelenting pursuit of justice. My thoughts and prayers are with all the people whose lives have been touched by the legacy of Santos Rodriguez. May his spirit live forever in our hearts, and may his legacy continue to inspire us to lead with love and guide us towards a more just and equitable society.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, most of you have probably never heard of Cedar Hill, Texas, but you know their story. A gunman walks into a hospital, which should be a place of healing, and instead inflicts immeasurable pain and trauma. That is the story of Cedar Hill on July 25, 2023, a terrifying day for my constituents but an ordinary day for America, at least the America of today where guns are gods and people are pawns, the America where the gun lobby wins and we the people lose. People lose their lives. They lose a sense of sanity. We all lose a sense of security. Make no mistake, when the radical right wins, we the people lose our rights. They have no clue what it means to be truly pro-life. If they did, they would write or at least support legislation that meets the moment, a moment full of death and destruction that is crying out for solutions and sanity.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a very special constituent, Ms. Edna Pemberton. Ms. Pemberton is a well-respected community leader whose tireless efforts have led to creating a better and safer way of life for those around her. As a servant leader, Ms. Pemberton has been at the forefront of several initiatives such as, the City of Dallas' Teen Curfew Ordinance and the Cielo Ranch Apartment Crime Prevention Outreach program. These programs are just a small part of the expansive work that Ms. Pemberton has produced in the Dallas community. Ms. Pemberton's faith in the power of community service has led her to work relentlessly across the city of Dallas to reach communities in need and to never back down from doing what's right. She's won numerous awards from various organizations recognizing her community service--all of which is a testament to her commitment to improving the lives of our neighbors across Dallas and abroad. In addition to her efforts around community service, Ms. Pemberton has another special gift which includes seeking out the issues that are most pressing our communities and putting action behind them. From organizing food drives to moderating conversations between members of the community and local police, she always puts herself at the heart of several impactful issues. In an environment where social justice is needed now more than ever, acknowledging the impact that relationships between local community members and law enforcement have, Ms. Pemberton eased tensions by creating a foundation of communication between the groups. Equipped with the knowledge, patience and compassion of her community, Ms. Edna Pemberton has continued to enrich the lives of others. She is an outstanding example of the underappreciated heroes that we have all across our City, State, and Country. I am confident that because of her impact and service that our communities are a better place.

Ms. CROCKETT

Ms. CROCKETT. Mr. Chair, it must be nice to perch yourself upon privilege. The vast majority of my colleagues across the aisle have never had to have ``the talk.'' In fact, most of them may not even know what ``the talk'' is, but let's talk about it. I am going to talk to you about my life experiences as a civil rights lawyer and urge that we legislate from a place of compassion instead of a conspiratorial, sunken place. Let's talk about these weapons. Let's talk about the fact that in the summer of 2021 when George Floyd was killed, I represented over 600 protesters pro bono. Unfortunately, these were people who believe in the Constitution and understand that there is more than one amendment besides just the Second Amendment. They were actually exercising their freedoms under the First Amendment, but instead what happened is that they ended up becoming victimized. Let me tell you, when I am talking about this, I am not talking about conjecture. I am talking about what is real. You can Google Brandon Saenz, a 26-year-old who had his eye shot out. Let me be clear. You can be injured, and it not necessarily be a firearm. Honestly, if my colleagues really care about making sure that we are going to be safe in our streets----

Ms. CROCKETT. Then maybe we will get some gun reform----