Barbara Lee

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, first let me thank the chairman of our Foreign Affairs Committee, Mr. Engel, for his kind words of congratulations and also for his persistent and steady leadership on this issue and so many issues. I also want to take a moment to thank Speaker Pelosi; Majority Leader Hoyer; our whip, Mr. Clyburn; and also Congresswoman Jayapal and Congressman Pocan. And I have to give a shout-out to my staff; our legislative director, Emma Mehrabi; my chief of staff, Julie Nickson; all of Team Lee; Mr. Engel's staff; all of our staffs who have come together, who have exhibited such an unwavering dedication and patriotism on this issue. My bipartisan amendment before us today, Madam Speaker, would repeal the 2002 Iraq Authorization for Use of Military Force, AUMF. It is important to note that nearly 75 percent of current Members were not serving when this AUMF was passed in 2002. I have long fought to repeal this. And what we knew then is that the 2003 invasion of Iraq was based on lies told by our own executive branch. Let me remind you now that, in 2002, I stood here and urged us not to rush into war. I offered an amendment to the AUMF that was presented that would have prevented the war by requiring the inspectors to allow verifiable information with regard to the alleged weapons of mass destruction before we took military action. That amendment received 72 votes. But had it passed, it would have exposed the false intelligence that the war was based on. There were no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. That is what the 2002 authorization authorized and was about. So I stand here once again urging Congress to do its job, this time by repealing the long-outdated and unnecessary 2002 AUMF. Not only is it not needed for any current counterterrorism operations, but repealing it would have absolutely no impact on the administration's ongoing military operations. Let me be clear: Congress passed the 2002 AUMF to address the perceived threat posed by the regime of Saddam Hussein. U.S. military deployments and operations carried out under this AUMF, dubbed Operation Iraqi Freedom, officially ended in 2011. Almost 18 years after the resolution's passage, the United States recognizes the sovereignty of Iraq and considers the Iraqi Government a key ally. Madam Speaker, leaving this authorization on the books is both dangerous and irresponsible. Doing so would allow any administration to use it for military action that Congress never intended to authorize. It will continue to allow these wars without end. Congress must make clear that any President must seek specific authorization for the use of force against Iran or any country. The 2002 AUMF was specifically authorized to rid Iraq of weapons of mass destruction which did not exist. That is why this is so important and something that we have already voted on, as our chairman indicated. Make no mistake: We are here today to rein in this President and any President, rein in their abuse of executive power, and to make clear that Congress has the sole constitutional duty to declare war and authorize the use of force. This should not be a partisan issue. Part of that responsibility is in ensuring that authorizations do not remain indefinitely, leaving them subject to use far outside those which Congress intended. For example, the Trump administration has said that the 2002 AUMF has been used to justify attacks on Iran. These arguments have absolutely no basis in reality, underscoring the need for immediate action by Congress. That is why the outdated AUMF must be repealed, to prevent further abuse by this administration. We can't allow any irrational decisionmaking to drag us into an unnecessary and catastrophic war of choice in the Middle East. And, Madam Speaker, let me just remind you of this. As the daughter of a veteran who served valiantly in two wars, I know personally the cost and consequences of war. I know that they are grave. Several thousands of our brave servicemen were killed, thousands more have permanent injuries, seen and unseen. We have witnessed the horrific rise of suicide and deep strains placed on our military families, and we must always remember the tens of thousands of Iraqis killed as well and trillions of taxpayer dollars spent. Of course, the unnecessary U.S. invasion of Iraq also sparked, yes, the rise of ISIS and allowed Iran to establish a presence in Iraq. Madam Speaker, we all know that our top priority is to protect our national security, our brave troops, our allies, and the American people. It is past time to finally exercise our constitutional duty and muster the courage to vote on matters of war and peace. Madam Speaker, I again thank Mr. Engel and my colleagues, and I urge them to vote ``yes'' on this amendment.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today heartbroken upon hearing of the sudden passing of Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and occupants Christina Mauser, Keri Altobelli, John Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Payton Chester, Sarah Chester, and Ara Zobayan. Kobe was an inspirational leader, advocate, athlete and father. He inspired people from across the world to strive for greatness, to be the best, and to invoke what he called, the Mamba Mentality. Kobe not only inspired the people of California but the entire world. From his incredibly difficult jump shots, to his selfless charitable efforts, Kobe always worked hard to stand up for what he believed in and to be a great father to four beautiful girls whom he loved. This unimaginable tragedy has rocked this world and left many hurt. Kobe Bryant finished his NBA career among the best to have ever played the game. His legacy will live on forever and we must come together to support the entire Bryant family and all the families affected through this tragedy.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, first, I thank my colleague, who is a bold and brilliant progressive here, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. I thank her for organizing this Special Order tonight, but I also thank her for her leadership and for hitting the ground running in the House of Representatives. It has been quite remarkable to work with her and to see how she understands the issues around peace and justice, that peace and justice go together. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congresswoman Schakowsky for her speech tonight and for her presentation, for laying out the chronology and historical record for how we got here and how we, unfortunately, were misled by the lies of the Bush administration into this tragic, endless war. I thank her very much for her leadership, for her friendship, and for staying the course because this has been, what, 19 years now? We have to repeal this authorization. Mr. Speaker, let me just say to Representatives Pramila Jayapal and Mark Pocan, who co-chair our Progressive Caucus, their tireless leadership in the Progressive Caucus has really helped with making sure that the public understands all the issues that we are dealing with as it relates to global peace and security. I chair the Progressive Caucus' Global Peace and Security Task Force, and we are very clear on why we must stop a possible catastrophic war with Iran and reassert our constitutional duty over matters of war and peace. Mr. Speaker, I invite all of my colleagues and the rest of the CPC to support the repeal of the 2001 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force. I am pleased that the House leadership has agreed to bring my repeal of the 2002 AUMF to the floor in 2 weeks, and I encourage Members on both sides of the aisle to cosponsor that legislation. First, with regard to the 2001 authorization, 19 years ago, Congress passed a 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force, AUMF. It was supposedly against Afghanistan, as it relates to the horrific events of 9/11. It was a blank check, however, for endless war. It was a 60-word authorization. It was totally open-ended. Now we have a Congress where--or at least the House--less than 25 percent of current Members actually voted on that authorization, which, of course, I adamantly opposed. This authorization gives any President authority to wage limitless war at any time, anywhere, for any reason, in perpetuity. According to the Congressional Research Service, the AUMF has been used as a blank check by three administrations to justify military force more than 40 times in 18 countries. Mr. Speaker, I include the CRS report in the Record. [From the Congressional Research Service, February 16, 2018] Memorandum Subject: Presidential References to the 2001 Authorization for Use of Military Force in Publicly Available Executive Actions and Reports to Congress. From: Matthew Weed, Specialist in Foreign Policy Legislation, 7-4589. This memorandum was prepared to enable distribution to more than one congressional office. This memorandum sets out information and analysis concerning presidential references in public official notifications and records to the Authorization for Use of Military Force (2001 AUMF; Public Law 107-40; 50 U.S.C. Sec. 1541 note), enacted in response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, in relation to military and other action. It contains very brief discussions of the relevant provisions of the 2001 AUMF, and the uses of U.S. armed forces connected with 2001 AUMF authority, as well as excerpted language and other information from the notifications. Use of Military Force Authorization Language in the 2001 AUMF Section 2(a) of the 2001 AUMF authorizes the use of force in response to the September 11 attacks: Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I hope you look at this map, and you will see exactly where the 2001 authorization has been used for military strikes and force. Two decades later, as outlined in the Afghanistan Papers, which I hope the Speaker has read, published in The Washington Post, I believe this was in December, the false justifications and inconsistencies led to a 19-year, endless war--Washington Post, Afghanistan Papers. The Pentagon consistently misled and lied to the American people about our progress in Afghanistan. This endless war has caused countless deaths of servicemembers, innocent civilians. It has cost trillions of dollars. It has created repercussions throughout the region and the world. It is truly concerning, and I urge my colleagues to read through the details of this report. Our own generals and ambassadors did not know then, and still do not know what our strategy was or why we are still involved in this war. We must ask ourselves: Why are we putting our servicemembers into harm's way? Why are innocent civilians' lives in flux? Why are we making our country less safe? But it wasn't just in 2001 when we passed an open-ended authorization. Next, in 2002, I stood here with my colleagues to urge us not to rush to war in Iraq based on false intelligence, mostly, weapons of mass destruction, and to vote against the 2002 AUMF. I offered then an amendment to this authorization that would have prevented this war by requiring that the inspectors go to verify that there were weapons of mass destruction before military action. That seemed reasonable. At least we should have had the data and the information to justify the use of force. But, of course, my amendment only received, I believe it was, 72 votes. Shame on us. But if it had passed, it would have exposed the lie that the war was based on. There were no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. So it is time to repeal that outdated authorization. And as I stand here, as I have stood here so many times to say, the American people do not want another catastrophic war of choice in the Middle East. Make no mistake: The dangerous and reckless actions taken by President Trump have brought us to the brink of an all-out war with Iran. Since day one, Trump and his warmongering administration have inched us closer to war with Iran. They have completely neglected diplomacy at every turn. Secretary Pompeo is the Secretary of State and should be our chief diplomat. Instead, we see our chief diplomat promoting the use of force in the Middle East. Ending the effective and successful Iran nuclear deal, known as the JCPOA, once again, this administration has made us less safe and has allowed Iran to move forward to begin to look at how to develop a nuclear weapon. That is outrageous, when we had verified the fact that they had stopped this. We have also, unfortunately, increased troop presence in the Middle East and promoted a dangerous and maximum pressure campaign with Iran and increasing economic sanctions. This administration is giving Members of Congress and the American people conflicting and contradictory information. We were told the President authorized the assassination of General Soleimani due to an ``imminent threat,'' as permitted by the War Powers Act. Now Secretary of Defense Mark Esper is saying that he has seen no evidence of an ``imminent threat'' and conducted the strike for ``deterrence.'' Unfortunately, they can't even keep up with their lies. Now, more than ever, Congress needs to exercise our constitutional responsibility to stop these endless wars. That is why I am proud to have voted last week in support of Congresswoman Slotkin's War Powers Resolution to limit the President's military action regarding Iran and prevent this crisis from spiraling out of control. I am also pleased that my bipartisan bill, H.R. 2456, would repeal the 2002 authorization. That is going to be taken up in 2 weeks. The administration has falsely claimed that they can justify the use of force against Iran by conducting assassinations and strikes in Iraq. It doesn't make any sense. My amendment to repeal the 2002 AUMF was included in the House-passed fiscal 2020 NDAA, National Defense Authorization Act, and voted on a bipartisan basis, but it was stripped by Republicans from the final bill. And now, unfortunately, we know why Senator McConnell and the Trump administration took that out of the NDAA. We understand their strategy now as it relates to that and what happened in Iraq. When Congress passed the 2002 AUMF before the invasion of Iraq, many of us did not support it. It was intended, again, to address the perceived threat posed by Saddam Hussein as it related to weapons of mass destruction. U.S. military deployments and operations carried out pursuant to the 2002 AUMF, dubbed Operation Iraqi Freedom--remember that?--officially concluded in 2011, no more. Almost 18 years after the resolution's passage, we still have this authorization on the books, and that isn't even being used in any current military operations, and it shouldn't be used. In 2 weeks, we will take up Congressman Khanna's bill, which I am proud to cosponsor, to prohibit funds from being used for a war with Iran absent explicit congressional authorization. We must do our job. Mr. Speaker, we have known for years that there is no military solution in the Middle East, and it is past time to return to a diplomatic strategy with our allies. We cannot allow this President's irresponsible and irrational decisionmaking to drag us into an unnecessary and catastrophic war in the Middle East. We must protect our national security, our brave troops, our allies, people in the region, Iraqis, Iranians, everyone who lives in the midst of harm's way, and we must protect the American people. So we ask the question each and every day now: Are we safer or less safe than before this assassination and military strike? I suggest that we are less safe, and we need to repeal the 2002 authorization to use force. We need to pass Congressman Khanna's resolution, and we also need to look at a strategy and insist that this administration come to Congress if, in fact, they intend to use force anywhere in the world. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congresswoman Tlaib for her leadership and for this Special Order.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding and also for his tremendous leadership. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. 83. This critical resolution helps put a check on this administration's reckless and irrational unauthorized military actions against Iran. The American people do not want, and we cannot allow, another unnecessary war of choice in the Middle East. This resolution is an important step in our efforts to prevent that from happening. This will restore our constitutional duty over military action. Also, we must take up my bill, H.R. 2456, to repeal the 2002 AUMF and Congressman Khanna's bill to prohibit any funds for a war with Iran, absent an explicit authorization. My 2002 AUMF amendment was included with bipartisan support in the House and passed in the 2020 NDAA bill, but it was stripped by Republicans from the final bill. Now, I know why. Madam Speaker, this administration has falsely claimed that the 2002 AUMF could be used as a congressional authorization to attack Iran, which is completely outrageous.

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, let me be clear: U.S. military deployment and operations carried out pursuant to the 2002 AUMF officially concluded in 2011. Maintaining this authorization is not only dangerous, but it is irresponsible. Madam Speaker, it is past time to return to diplomacy and end these endless wars, and I urge an ``aye'' vote on H. Con. Res. 83.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to discuss the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement also known as USMCA or NAFTA 2.0. Due to Speaker Pelosi and the negotiators' tireless work, this USMCA is better than the current NAFTA and what the Trump Administration presented in the original agreement. USMCA will establish labor specific enforcement measures and an independent review body to ensure that Mexico is complying with labor obligations. However, after careful consideration, I will vote NO on the passage of USMCA. I am disappointed by the lack of strong environmental protections. Our planet is feeling the effects of climate change every day, and the lack of strong environmental protections is something I cannot abide. What's more, USMCA does not contain any binding climate standards. In fact, the deal barely mentions climate change at all. Finally, USMCA supports dirty fossil fuels, allows oil and gas corporations to run rampant, and fails to address toxic pollution. This is a shame in a time when our planet--and our trade deals-- deserve better. Without stronger protections, this trade deal will have catastrophic consequences to the environment for many decades to come. In order to meaningfully act upon our changing climate, to address our warming planet before it is too late, and to save future generations from a climate emergency. I know that this bill will pass, so I pledge to continue work to address climate issues relating to globalization and trade policy.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, first of all, let me just say, I taught my children that there are consequences if they break the law. I am saddened, but I am not shocked, that we are here today considering Articles of Impeachment against President Trump. I am saddened, but I am not shocked because of the pattern of corruption we have seen from this President. Yes, I am saddened, but I am not shocked because this President has routinely shown his disregard of Congress and the rule of law. The facts are not in dispute. The President abused his power, defied the public's trust, and betrayed his oath of office. He undermined our elections by corruptly soliciting foreign interference in our elections to benefit his own future reelection efforts. Then he obstructed Congress every step of the way in an effort to cover it all up. Donald Trump has been and remains a threat to our national security, a clear danger to our democracy, and wholly unfit to serve as President of the United States. We have an obligation to act today to uphold the Constitution, but also to show our children and grandchildren that no one is above the law, and that includes the President of the United States.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, let me thank Chairwoman Lowey for yielding, but also for her tremendous and tireless work, day and night, on behalf of the American people, and also our ranking member, Kay Granger, for her leadership. I rise in strong support of this domestic and foreign assistance appropriations bill. First, as a member of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee and also the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, I am really pleased to see such a comprehensive bill that strongly invests in our rural and our urban communities. For example, there is $266 million for the new Ending HIV initiative. This is new funding. We have an increase of $42 million to historically Black colleges and universities and a $19 million increase to Hispanic- serving institutions. These institutions help improve the higher education of our students of color; also, an increase in the Healthy Food Financing Initiative and the College Hunger Initiative, which this bill addresses. It also includes $65 million for the Education Innovation Research grants for computer science for young girls and students of color and $20 million for Special Olympics education programs, which the President's budget initially proposed to eliminate.

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I also want to thank our chair of the State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Subcommittee for the increase for our international AIDS program and for the Global Fund.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act. This bill takes on Big Pharma to help lower the cost of prescription drugs for everyday families. It is beyond outrageous that the U.S. government is not currently allowed to negotiate drug prices through Medicare. And it is shocking that Big Pharma is charging people in the United States, hundreds of times more than what they charge in other countries. But H.R. 3 will help fix that. It allows the government to negotiate drug pricing through Medicare, and expands Medicare to cover vision, dental and hearing for the first time, while also investing in community health centers and critical research. I'm especially pleased that this bill incorporates key provisions championed by our Progressive Caucus Co-Chairs Pramila Jayapal and Mark Pocan that increase the number of drugs that Medicare is able to negotiate and protect 150 million Americans with private health care plans from being price gouged by Big Pharma. I urge a YES vote on this important bill named for our beloved, departed colleague Elijah Cummings who fought day in and out for the people. We miss him.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, first of all, I thank the chairman for his leadership and for ensuring paid parental leave for Federal employees. I strongly support this and many other provisions in this bill. Unfortunately, this bill does not include very important provisions, such as the provision to end support for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, and two provisions I fought to include that would help end our forever wars. The first is the repeal of the 2001 authorization to use military force, which is a blank check for endless war. The second is the repeal of the 2002 AUMF. The House passed my amendment to repeal the 2002 AUMF. It makes absolutely no sense that this outdated AUMF still exists. We must restore some congressional authority on matters of war and peace and finally repeal these AUMFs. Also, I encourage my colleagues to read The Washington Post's recently published ``Afghanistan Papers,'' if they need any more justification for why Congress must reassert itself in matters of war and peace. I can tell you, it is an appalling and shocking read. Finally, the bill before us authorizes a Pentagon budget of about $733 billion, which is the largest ever authorized. Given the waste, fraud, and abuse at the Pentagon, the failure of the Pentagon to pass an even basic audit, and the unnecessary spending, I am simply unable to support this bill. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman for his work, and I thank him for yielding.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Rev. Dr. Jacqueline A. Thompson in celebration of her installation as the Senior Pastor of the Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland, California. Rev. Thompson was raised by a mother who believed in the importance of church. In her own words at the age of 12, Dr. Thompson realized that church was ``not to be just about singing and having a good time in the Lord. But rather there was a purpose and a mandate with a measurable objective''. After graduating from College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1993, Dr. Thompson began teaching history and politics. While teaching allowed her to positively impact lives in her community and while she loved teaching, she felt called to impact lives in a different way. In 1995, Dr. Thompson followed her calling and returned to her church family and was licensed to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. She was later ordained in 1998 by the Reverend Dr. J. Alfred Smith, Sr. at Allen Temple Baptist Church. Later she attended Howard University School of Divinity where she excelled in academic scholarship, preaching and ministry. As a result, she received several awards including The Who's Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities, The Ford Foundation Fellowship, and The Nannie Helen Burroughs Award. During her time at Howard University, she served as the Minister of Youth at the Shiloh Baptist Church of Washington, D.C. Her love for teaching and affinity with youth allowed the young people in the Ministry to flourish under her leadership. Dr. Thompson graduated from Howard University in 1998 earning a Master of Divinity Degree with honors. In 2001, she was appointed Executive Director of the Shiloh Family Life Center Foundation, Inc. In this leadership position Dr. Thompson raised over 5 million dollars for non-profit outreach. This money allowed the church to grow and foster their Afterschool program, Senior Center, Day Care Center, HIV/AIDS program, Human Services Program, Community Computer Center, Debutante Program and Teen Mothers' Empowerment Program. In 2010, Dr. Thompson was installed as the Assistant Pastor of the Allen Temple Baptist Church--the first woman to ever serve in this capacity. In 2013, Dr. Thompson became a Doctor of Ministry in African American Church Leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. Dr. Thompson has demonstrated that she is the right woman, for the right time, who has come ``for such a time as this'' to lead such a spirit filled congregation. Her sense of justice to serve the ``least of these, our brothers and sisters' in the manner described by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, will continue to be a hallmark of this historic church. Today, I join the Allen Temple Church Family and the greater East Bay community in celebrating her installation, as the first female Senior Pastor in the Church's 100-year history. As we look ahead to this new season in our church history, let us continue as Micah 6:8 reminds us ``to do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.'' On behalf of California's 13th Congressional District, we congratulate Rev. Dr. Jacqueline A. Thompson, as she is installed as the next pastor of the historic Allen Temple Baptist Church.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman for yielding and for bringing this bill to the floor. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 326 which I am proud to cosponsor. It really is an important resolution affirming the United States' support for a two-state solution, which has been longstanding bipartisan consensus for decades. It also makes clear that Congress opposes any action by the White House to encourage unilateral annexation of the West Bank. Mr. Speaker, this resolution is not only needed but it is incredibly timely. The Trump administration is actively working against a two- state solution and lasting peace at every step, from support for unilateral annexation of the West Bank to reversal of U.S. policy toward illegal Israeli settlement expansion which jeopardizes Israeli security. This resolution reaffirms the United States' commitment to a lasting peace in the region which can only be achieved through a negotiated two-state solution for both Israelis and Palestinians. For the first time, this resolution includes clear language that the United States should resume assistance to the Palestinians. I thank Chairman Price. Let me just say it is an incredibly important step. I thank Congressman Lowenthal and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib for taking a bold step and seeking common ground.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding and bringing H.R. 4 to this floor. I would like to thank Congresswoman Terri Sewell for her very consistent efforts to restore the vote and also our Chairwoman Marcia Fudge of the Subcommittee on Elections for holding hearings throughout the country, which actually established the foundation for this bill. The 1965 Voting Rights Act repaired damage in our communities whose voting rights were denied. Dr. Martin Luther King once said he saw that as a great step forward. However, in 2013, the Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act in the Shelby v. Holder decision. As a result, the Nation saw nearly 20 percent fewer polling locations and 17 million voters purged from voting rolls in States with patterns of voter suppression. This is especially true for communities of color, whose votes have been silenced over the years due to this disastrous Court decision. Voting is the backbone of our democracy and something that every American should have the right to access. I was born and raised in El Paso, Texas, and I vividly remember the denial of full citizenship of African Americans. Mr. Speaker, we need a system that is strong, free, and fair. I urge my colleagues to move forward in a bipartisan way and pass H.R. 4.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, first, I would like to thank Congressman Bobby Rush for leading this effort in the memory of the late beloved Fred Hampton. Madam Speaker, fifty years ago, the people of Illinois and the world lost a devoted public servant with the untimely brutal murder of Fred Hampton. A man whose reputation followed him. I knew of Fred Hampton during my time as a community worker with the Black Panther Party in Oakland, California. Fred's fight for freedom and justice were known throughout the country including in my district. Fred took the Black Panther's Party motto to heart--he fought to end widespread poverty, increase economic and educational opportunities, and ensure peace and justice for all. Promoting the idea of ``All Power to the People'', and unwilling to wait for the political leaders of the time to address the needs of the African American community, the Panthers--and Fred--took action themselves to force change and bring about liberation from all forms of human exploitation and oppression. Above all, Fred was deeply dedicated to the Black Panther Party's Free Breakfast Program, which gave thousands of children the necessary nutrition to focus and excel before their school day. He understood the importance of meeting the needs in the community while fighting for a fair chance to overcome structural and oppressive barriers. Years ago, I was lucky enough to also work on the Party's Free Breakfast Program in Oakland, California. And as many of my colleagues know, it was the success of the program that pressed the Federal government to increase funding for free breakfast for public school children. Madam Speaker, above all--Fred was a leader and worked to form a, a more peaceful world. His unparalleled leadership as former Chair of the Illinois Black Panther Party and as a warrior for peace and justice will always be his legacy. The legacy of Fred Hampton shall never die, and may he continue to rest in peace.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding and for his leadership, and also Chairman Engel as well as Mr. Smith for their commitment on this and so many issues. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 517. This important resolution reaffirms our commitment to ending AIDS and calls on our government to maintain its historic contribution to the Global Fund. As one of the original authors of the Global Fund and as co-chair of the HIV/AIDS Caucus, I am pleased that we are moving this bill forward. This legislation has one of the greatest impacts on lives of people around the world. Since 2002, the Global Fund and PEPFAR have saved 32 million lives. That is 32 million lives. That is unbelievable. What is more, the Global Fund has cut the number of AIDS-related deaths in half since 2005 and helped to reduce TB deaths by 37 percent. Mr. Speaker, our country's strong support of this program, which has been bipartisan, coupled with new scientific advances, has helped us turn the tide on achieving an AIDS-free generation. Just this year, during the Global Fund's Sixth Replenishment Conference, the United States maintained its strong commitment to $1.56 billion a year. That is a 33 percent contribution to this important fund. I am glad that we are here today to reaffirm our commitment to the Global Fund and its sixth replenishment fund. The bipartisan and multilateral commitment to this program cannot be overstated. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I want to close by lifting up the legacy of my predecessor, a great statesman, Congressman Ron Dellums, who inspired my legislation to establish the framework for the Global Fund. Mr. Speaker, I thank my partner, Republican Congressman Jim Leach, for his spirit of bipartisanship in helping me get this bill through the Banking and Financial Services Committee; former President Bill Clinton, who signed the Global AIDS and TB Relief Act of 2000 to establish the Global Fund; and, of course, the late Kofi Annan, who served as Secretary General of the United Nations and who boldly took this idea to the U.N. and led the global effort for support. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this resolution, vote ``yes'' to saving lives. Mr. Speaker, again, I thank everyone for being here today. Sunday, of course, was World AIDS Day, and we led a delegation to the United Nations. We had high-level meetings, and everyone applauded the United States for its leadership.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding, and I thank her for her tireless leadership on this issue and so many issues, and also for forming the bipartisan caucus as it relates to our HBCUs; because this bipartisan caucus, once she got here, she hit the ground running, and it has never been the same. I am a proud member of the caucus, and I just want to thank her for her tremendous leadership. Also, I thank our chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Congresswoman Karen Bass, for her leadership in helping to put together this Special Order tonight. It is really an honor to be here tonight to support our Nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities; and, of course, I am in full support of the FUTURE Act. Madam Speaker, Malcolm X once declared: ``Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.'' For over 150 years, Historically Black Colleges have provided these passports for students. One of the largest populations of students at HBCUs come from my home State of California. In fact, it may be the largest number of students at HBCUs are from California, including my grandson, Jonah, whom you know. Black students in California would never have the opportunity to go to college if it were not for HBCUs. So, for them and for their families, I am deeply grateful. HBCUs have always offered African American young men and women a quality, affordable education at times when access to institutions of higher learning was limited or completely closed off to African Americans. With over 101 HBCUs across the Nation and 9 percent of all African American college students attending HBCUs, they are more important than ever in providing students a superior education. And, yes, it is the manifestation of the fact that Black lives do matter. They do matter. Now, as a member of the funding committee, the Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations Subcommittee, I know just how important HBCU funding is. That is why we fought each and every year to increase HBCU funding, this year by $93 million above fiscal year `19 levels and the President's request. Let me say, also, that I did not have the honor of attending an HBCU, but I come from a family with deep roots at HBCUs. My grandfather and two aunts graduated from then Huston-Tillotson College in Austin, Texas. I just have to tell you, my 99-year-old aunt, Aunt Lois, whom I spent Thanksgiving with, spent her whole time talking to me about her education at her HBCU, at Huston-Tillotson College. She wants more young people to receive the stellar education that she received, and she is 99 years old. She is an unbelievable woman. HBCUs provided her that educational foundation for her life. She did an amazing job working and setting up businesses. She attributes that to everything she learned at HBCUs. Also, my mother attended Prairie View A&M University and also Southern University. I have been the beneficiary of the values and the academic foundation provided to me through my family's attendance and involvement at these great institutions. Two of my nieces, Michelle and Nicole, graduated from Prairie View. They are amazing young Black women making their mark in the world. HBCUs have a rich history to look back on and a vibrant future ahead, so I am proud tonight to join my colleagues in supporting HBCUs. I thank Congresswoman Adams for her commitment and her leadership to the education of our young African American students because she truly is securing the future, not only for our students and their families, but for our country and for the world.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today with Congressman DeSaulnier to honor the incredible performance and achievements of the University of California, Berkeley Golden Bear Men's Swimming and Diving team in the 2019 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Men's Swimming and Diving Championships. On March 30, 2019, the Cal Bears captured the 2019 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I, swimming and diving national championship following four impressive days of competition at the Lee and Joe Jamail Texas Swimming Center in Austin, Texas. The Cal Bears have won the NCAA Men's Swimming and Diving National Championship six times in program history. The championship was won in 1979, 1980, 2011, 2012, 2015, and 2019. The Cal Bears also set a school record with 560 points accumulated at the NCAA championships and bested runner-up Texas by an 85-point margin of victory. I am proud of my alma mater for having extended their run of placing in the top two at the NCAA championships to 10 consecutive years. It also brings me great pride to recognize the Cal Bears' Head Coach, David Durden, whom will also lead the United States' Men's Swimming Olympic Team in competition in Tokyo, Japan, during the 2020 Summer Games. Congressman DeSaulnier and I would like to also recognize the impressive student athletes of the victorious program beginning with Senior Andrew Seliskar, the first Cal Bears swimmer in 22 years to win three individual NCAA titles in one NCAA swim meet. He won the 200-yard breaststroke, the 200-yard individual medley and the 200-yard freestyle. Seliskar was named the 2019 College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America National Swimmer of the Year. In addition, Congressman DeSaulnier and I would like to recognize Sophomore Ryan Hoffer for his victory of the 50-yard freestyle NCAA title. Senior Andrew Seliskar, Junior Michael Jensen, Junior Pawel Sendyk, and Sophomore Ryan Hoffer won the 200-yard freestyle relay NCAA title. Today, on behalf of California's 13th and 11th Congressional Districts, I join Congressman DeSaulnier to commend the hard work, dedication, determination, and commitment to excellence of the student- athletes, coaches, families, and all others involved with the Cal Bears. Congratulations on a successful season and placing a finalist in every swimming event at the NCAA Championships.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening with a heavy heart to honor the extraordinary life of Bernard Tyson, who passed away on November 10 and whom, as we speak, the Bay area is paying tribute to in a memorial in San Francisco. Bernard Tyson was one of our Nation's most influential African American CEOs and healthcare leaders, serving as the first African American CEO of Kaiser, and transforming Kaiser's healthcare system into a model for healthcare providers everywhere. Bernard's tireless dedication to improving the quality of healthcare was exemplified in his push to create a more accessible and affordable healthcare system for all. Throughout his life, Bernard sparked systematic change and innovation, addressing inequities that disproportionately affect communities of color. He was a role model and mentor to so many African American young men, including my son, Tony, who recently had lunch with him to discuss his insights into the future of healthcare. I offer my deepest condolences to his wife, Denise, his entire family, to our entire community, and the country. We lost a warrior and a great humanitarian; but, as we mourn his passing, let us celebrate his life and make sure that his legacy lives. May Bernard rest in peace, and may he rest in power.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 296, which is an important resolution affirming the United States record on the Armenian genocide that the House overwhelmingly passed on Tuesday. This historic resolution makes clear that our Nation unequivocally recognizes the Armenian genocide and encourages education and understanding of these tragic events. Madam Speaker, the Armenian genocide, the first genocide in the 20th century, took place from 1915 to 1923. During this tragedy in history, 1.5 million Armenians were killed--men, women, and children. I was privileged to visit Armenia earlier this year and talk to many Armenians about this tragic history. We must remember and acknowledge the lives that were taken and the pain that was inflicted. We can neither forget the atrocities that took place then, or other examples of ethnic cleansing, nor allow them to continue. Madam Speaker, I am pleased that the body passed this critical resolution on Tuesday for constituents in my district, across the Nation, and the world.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of the late Congressman John Conyers and to extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Monica, his family, children, former staff, and the people of Detroit, who he served so well for more than 50 years. Congressman Conyers was a tireless advocate for racial and economic justice and an ardent defender of civil rights. We all owe him a debt of gratitude for his unwavering commitment to pushing our Nation to live up to its ideals of liberty and justice for all. That is his legacy. I met Congressman Conyers during my time as a staffer to our beloved late Congressman Ron Dellums, who was also a cofounder of the Congressional Black Caucus with Congressman Conyers. They were very close friends and worked together on many issues, including the establishment of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal holiday. I always remember staffing the many meetings with Ron, Congressman Conyers, and the legendary Stevie Wonder, who worked with us as we planned our outside-inside strategy for the holiday legislation. And it worked. John believed in our democracy and the power of the people. He recognized that the only way democracy can work is with the input, vision, and voice of the people. Congressman Conyers stood on the front lines of the fight for so many important issues during his time in office, and he was cosponsor of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. I probably wouldn't be standing here as a Member of Congress had it not been for Congressman Conyers. As a cofounder of the Congressional Black Caucus, he focused the Nation's attention on racial inequality and injustices faced by African Americans around the country, from inequity in education, to poverty, to mass incarceration. He stood up for those who needed his advocacy the most. Of course, when Rosa Parks fell on hard times after refusing to give up her seat on a segregated Montgomery bus, in what launched the civil rights movement, John hired her to work in his district office in Detroit, where she worked until she retired in 1988. For more than 30 years, he fought for H.R. 40, the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African-Americans Act, which calls for a commission to study reparations for descendants of enslaved people from Africa. Congressman Conyers, Chairman Conyers, he was masterful, drawing a connection between the historical injustices faced by African Americans and the present-day inequities experienced in our communities. I am so proud to support H.R. 40 today and to continue his work. In his honor, I hope that my colleagues support Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee's efforts to take H.R. 40 over the finish line. Congressman Conyers was a progressive champion who fought for all of us. He was an early supporter of single-payer healthcare. I believe the bill was H.R. 676, which I was proud to cosponsor. He fought to ensure that every American has access to quality, affordable healthcare. He fought to protect our safety net so that folks who needed a helping hand, no matter their color, can keep a roof over their heads and food on the table. He spoke out vocally against the Trump administration's attacks on civil rights and human rights for people of color and the LGBTQ community. Indeed, though Congressman Conyers represented Detroit, he truly fought for all Americans and earned his affectionate name of ``America's Congressman.'' Also, John formed the Poor People's Caucus in the House, where he encouraged Members to speak out for the poor and low-income folks. In his memory, let us fight for the most vulnerable Americans. Like our friend, Congressman Elijah Cummings, who we recently lost as well, Congressman Conyers' legacy and impact will live on, though he is no longer with us. His legacy should continue to inspire us to keep up the fight for justice and equality, which he dedicated his life to. Mr. Speaker, so today, once again, I offer my condolences to Monica, to Congressman Conyers' family and loved ones, and join them in celebrating his life and legacy. May he rest in peace, and may he rest in power.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. First, Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I also want to thank our chair, Congresswoman Karen Bass, and Stacey Plaskett for leading this beautiful tribute tonight. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight in honor of the life and legacy of Chairman Elijah Cummings, who was a great statesman and leader, but also a kind and gentle human being who led with both his head and his heart. My heart is heavy tonight as I offer my deepest condolences to my friends, Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, the entire family, his staff, and the people of Baltimore, whom he loved and served with courage and boldness. Yes, he was a person of deep faith, which was that guiding light in everything that he did. Elijah was the son of two pastors, and he took care of his mother and his father in their last years on Earth. Elijah had been a friend and adviser to me since I first came to Congress. When I was first elected, he gave me much-needed encouragement, knowing that I had come in a special election, replacing my mentor and my friend, the late great Congressman Ron Dellums, who had some big shoes to fill. But Elijah told me early on, he said: Hey, you have got to step out there, carve out your own agenda, and get out there and do your job, what you need to do to serve the people of your district. He wanted to help me. We talked about how he could do that. He was the first Member of Congress--and he was so eager to do this--to visit my district early on in my tenure. We had a town meeting on gun safety, mass incarceration, and criminal justice reform. I have to tell you, Mr. Speaker, my constituents were in awe. They also send their condolences this evening. This was a defining moment for me as he lifted me up as a new Member of Congress in my district in a way that no one had, and he continued to support me and advise me on many important decisions. Also, like Congresswoman Jackson Lee, I had the privilege to be with Congressman Cummings in his district several times. The first time was when he invited CBC members to visit his HIV/AIDS clinics and other community organizations. It was so remarkable to see how people not only respected him as a great Member of Congress, but how they loved and connected with him as their brother who never lost touch with the people. So Elijah will be remembered as a man who pulled no punches, was authentic to the core, and a champion for our democracy. The greatest tribute to his work will be for all of us to continue to stand and defend our democracy with the same passion, vigor, and determination that he had. I will miss Elijah's wise counsel, his words of encouragement, his support, and his leadership. May his legacy live on, and may he rest in peace and power. I will miss you so much, Elijah. May God bless.

Ms. LEE of California

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.