Terri Sewell

Ms. SEWELL

Ms. SEWELL. Madam Speaker, on March 11, 2021, I missed the vote on the Motion to Recommit for H.R. 8. If present, I would have voted no.

Ms. SEWELL

Ms. SEWELL. Mr. Speaker, today is a day of great progress and great promise. I rise today to urge my colleagues to vote in favor of the American Rescue Plan. The American Rescue Plan will save lives and livelihoods. It will put vaccines in the arms of Americans and provides $20 billion in a nationwide vaccine plan. It also puts children safely back in schools with a nearly $130 billion investment. It will put money in people's pockets by delivering $1,400 stimulus checks, as well as expand reliable childcare and affordable healthcare. It will extend unemployment benefits to 18 million Americans and so many Alabamians that I represent. It will put people back to work by providing critical support for the hardest hit small businesses, expanding PPP eligibility and much more. It will give lots of needed money directly to localities, to local cities and counties. In fact, $472 million of direct funding will come to the State of Alabama in my district. Mr. Speaker, I want my constituents to know and all Americans to know that help is indeed on the way.

Ms. SEWELL

Ms. SEWELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Protecting the Right to Organize Act, the PRO Act. Just last weekend, I invited a number of our Democratic colleagues to come to my district and stand in solidarity with the Amazon workers in Bessemer, Alabama, who are voting this month on whether to join the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union. Mr. Speaker, it is because of unions that we have a 5-day workweek. It is because of unions that we have safer working conditions all across America. Congress must do more to protect the basic right to join a union. If we pass the PRO Act, workers in Bessemer and workers across this country will have stronger collective bargaining rights and more streamlined union election processes. We would also have meaningful enforcement for companies that violate workers' rights. The workers in my Alabama district deserve a fair election that is free of influence from management. Mr. Speaker, the Amazon workers in Bessemer, Alabama, are following a rich tradition of ordinary Alabamians, standing up and fighting for civil rights and human rights. I am asking my colleagues to stand with the workers in Bessemer and around this country by passing the PRO Act.

Ms. SEWELL

Ms. SEWELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Joyce Beatty. I would like to thank the original anchors of tonight's and every CBC Special Order hour, the distinguished gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee) and the distinguished gentleman from New York (Mr. Torres). I thank them for relinquishing to me, just for tonight's Special Order hour, the opportunity to be a guest anchor. Yesterday, we commemorated the 56th anniversary of Bloody Sunday, an event in American history where ordinary Americans in my hometown of Selma, Alabama, brought about extraordinary social change as they peacefully demonstrated for the equal right to vote. Each year, those foot soldiers would return to the Edmund Pettus Bridge to seek renewal, rededication, recommitment to the cause for which they fought, the cause of justice and equality. These heroes, known and unknown, risked their very lives for the opportunity of all Americans to vote. So many people got to read about it in their history books. I got to live it, being a native of Selma, Alabama, a daughter of Selma, but also a lifetime member of the historic Brown Chapel AME Church, where those marchers gathered peacefully before they walked across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Yesterday was a solemn day. I did so walking across that bridge without John Lewis. Congressman Lewis is known to so many as an icon. But when you grow up in Selma, Alabama, he is more than just that. He was our hero. Only in America could a little, Black girl grow up and watch her hero, year after year after year, always during Bloody Sunday, come back to Selma to remind the world that his cause, their cause, was not over yet. We know that progress is elusive. We know that every generation must fight and fight again for the progress that was made by the previous generation, and they must advance it as well. When I look at John Lewis on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, I can't help but be reminded of the very young John Lewis who, 56 years ago, carried a backpack. Now, you know, madam co-anchor, that in that backpack, he had an apple, he had a toothbrush, and he had a Bible. He said that he wanted to be prepared to spend the night in jail. He and Hosea Williams and 600 marchers peacefully marched for the right to vote. But they were met on that bridge by a sea of Alabama State Troopers who told them that they had 5 minutes to disperse--5 minutes to disperse. They wanted to gather and pray. They almost started to kneel, but they didn't have time to do that, because the very people whose job it was to protect and serve the people were the ones who beat them with billy clubs while riding horseback and gassed them. When I think about John Lewis, it is this iconic picture of John being beaten at the foot of the Edmund Pettus Bridge. He wasn't alone. So many people that people don't know about, like Amelia Boynton Robinson, who I had the great fortune, during the 215th State of the Union, on the 100th anniversary, to be my special guest. Ms. Boynton, not quite as known as John Lewis, but nevertheless a foot soldier for justice, beaten and battered on a bridge. As John would say, he shed and they shed a little blood on a bridge for America to live up to its promise, its promise of equality and justice for all. Old battles have become new again, and John knew that that progress was elusive. He started a pilgrimage, congressional bipartisan pilgrimage. He wanted his colleagues in Congress to experience walking in his footsteps through Birmingham, Montgomery, and Selma. Year after year we would march; year after year we would march. Faith in politics. I know so many people who will be speaking tonight will be pictured right here on this amazing photo. People like Steny Hoyer, Barbara Lee, Sheila Jackson Lee, so many would come year after year with John. Why was it important for us to come? It was important, because as John said, we must never forget. When I got the news that John passed--you know, we knew that pancreatic cancer, stage 4, was a kiss of death, but we also knew if anyone could fight it, it would be John. I can remember sitting in my bedroom, as I heard about John's death, having spoken to him only 2 weeks prior, my heart was heavy. But at the same time, my spirit soared, because I knew that we had an opportunity to walk among an angel right here on Earth, that he gave us the roadmap, he told us that we must never give up, that we must never give in, that we have to keep the faith. He believed, more than anything, that America's best days were ahead of it. It is now incumbent upon us to pick up that baton and to carry it to the next leg. Who would have ever thought when I was a child sitting in Brown Chapel, singing in the choir, singing in the choir on those commemorative Bloody Sundays, with Coretta Scott King there, Juanita Abernathy there, C. T. Vivian there, Joseph Lowery there, and John Lewis there--but one, by one, by one, they are now gone. And we, who are their beneficiaries, must pick up their cause. Their cause must become our cause, too. I never would have thought that 56 years would pass, and I, as Alabama's first Black Congresswoman, would have to seek congressional action in order to enforce the very bill that John Lewis and so many unknown Americans bludgeoned on a bridge in Selma--that we, Congress Members, must stand up to the task. The Shelby v. Holder decision struck down section 4. But H.R. 4, the John Robert Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, would fully restore the protections of the Voting Rights Act. What a befitting tribute to John Robert Lewis, the Boy from Troy, that we not only walk the walk and talk the talk, but that we pick up that mantle and we pass H.R. 4. Now, I know we are going to get it through the House. I know that. I know that my colleagues are committed. I also know that the Biden- Harris administration wants to sign a bill that will put section 4 back into the Voting Rights Act. What I am not sure is if we can get enough of our Republican colleagues--so many of whom came on those pilgrimages with John Lewis, walked side by side in a bipartisan effort to show the world that what happened on those sacred places in my district, Birmingham--to visit the 16th Street Baptist Church where the four little girls were killed, to see in Montgomery the very spot where Rosa Parks could not sit on a bus, to walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge. It was not just a photo op, I pray, but rather a call to action that now they, too, can pay it forward. When we file H.R. 4, it will be after we have prepared, had an evidentiary hearing and all the evidence. We will be informed. That formula will be informed by the most egregious of actors, because we know it has to be narrowly tailored. We know that we can't just submit the same formula, and we won't. Because here is what is important: What is important is Federal oversight, as we have seen State after State recently impose more egregious, restrictive photo I.D. laws and restrictive barriers to voting. I am honored today to be a part of this tribute to John Lewis. I know so many want to speak. I am just going to say in closing, John is always in our midst, because John's call to action was very familiar to all of us. He told us that ours was not a struggle of one day, not even one lifetime. He told us that ours was a struggle for a cause greater than us and that that beloved community was possible if people of goodwill, Black and White, Republican and Democrat, Christian and all the religions, if we would just do the right thing, that when we see such injustice, we have to stand up and fight it out. Can't you hear him? I can. Never give up. Never give in. Get into some good trouble, necessary trouble, and we look forward to doing that for John Robert Lewis. Mr. Speaker, I'm Congresswoman Terri Sewell and I proudly represent Alabama's Seventh District--the Civil Rights District--which includes the historic cities of Birmingham, Montgomery and my hometown of Selma. It's an honor for me to guest anchor with Sheila Jackson Lee tonight. I am honored to participate in the First Annual John Lewis Good Trouble Special Order Hour on the heels of the 56th Anniversary of the Bloody Sunday March. In 2020 we mourned the loss of a giant: the late, great Congressman John Lewis; my dear friend and mentor. Though I am reminded daily of the sacrifices made by John and the known and unknown foot soldiers on that bridge 56 years ago, this commemoration feels unmistakably different. Each year, John would lead a congressional delegation onto the bridge in my hometown where he was bludgeoned for the sacred right to vote. Every time, you felt like you were there with him, overwhelmed with emotion and grounded by courage as he stood before the brigade of police officers telling him and the rest to turn back. In March 2020, John, battling cancer, surprised everyone, arriving at the 55th anniversary of the march to speak at the apex of the bridge. That was John--relentless in the fight for what he believed in and willing to risk his life for the betterment of humanity. The horrific events of Bloody Sunday brought the reality of the fight for voting rights to living rooms across our country. It was there, in my hometown of Selma, where ordinary Americans dared to follow through on their extraordinary commitment to justice and equality for all, that led to the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. For me, growing up in Selma, under the shadow of the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the history of the voting rights movement was not something I had to learn in school. The foot soldiers of the movement were not pictures or names in a history book, they were a vital and vibrant part of the community in Selma--they were my teachers, my church members, my piano teacher, our firefighters and even my babysitter. Their valiant, collective efforts put Selma on the map in a way that no one could have imagined, so much so that we still celebrate and commemorate those efforts today. The movement continues, because it must--because the fight for equity is as important now as it was in 1965. Selma is still now. Old battles have become new again. Since the Supreme Court in Shelby v. Holder gutted the Voting Rights Act of 1965 in 2013, state legislatures all across the Nation have passed restrictive voter laws making it harder for certain people to vote. As a result of November's historic electoral victories, many Republican state legislators, Members of Congress, and far-right interest groups are working overtime to keep voters from the ballot box by introducing hundreds of new voting restrictions across the country. Without federal protections against discrimination, States across the country have enacted new voter suppression tactics that subject voters to: longer lines; inaccessible polling places; strict voter ID requirements; broken voting machines; and more. Twenty-eight states have enacted and implemented voter ID laws since 2010 and, in just two months, 250 restrictions have been introduced in 43 states. Indeed, voter suppression is still alive and well. Never did I think the cause for which John Lewis marched for 56 years ago--the VOTING RIGHTS ACT would require congressional action to restore its full protection. It reminds us that progress is elusive and every generation must fight and fight again. The legacy of my district requires that I pick up this baton of voter equality and continue the next leg--their cause is my cause too. I look forward to introducing H.R. 4, The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act, because the reality is--we have not yet achieved the America that John dreamed of. John knew that our Country's best days lie ahead of us, but we must seize the opportunities to enact change every day. He understood that democracy is not the whim or edict of one person; it is a constant, collective act of reinvention. We are a Nation founded on a call to action--to strive daily for a more perfect union. Every one of us has a role to play. As leaders we must lead and as citizens we must vote. May we all be renewed by the 56th Bloody Sunday anniversary and recommit ourselves to the ideals of equality and justice for which the foot soldiers marched. Let our words and actions stir the soul of our Nation. John gave us his final call to action: John said, ``Never give up, never give in, keep the faith, keep your eyes on the prize.'' Let's get into good trouble.

Ms. SEWELL

Ms. SEWELL. Madam Speaker, on Monday, March 8, 2021, I was unavoidably detained and missed the vote on the Motion on Ordering the Previous Question on the Rule (H. Res. 188). If present, I would have voted YEA.

Ms. SEWELL

Ms. SEWELL. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted yea on rollcall No. 63.

Ms. SEWELL

Ms. SEWELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to vote in favor of the American Rescue Plan. This past January marked 1 year since the first case of coronavirus was found in the United States. In my home State of Alabama, nearly 10,000 people have contracted COVID-19 and almost 9,000 have died, and over half a million of the workers have filed for unemployment. We know that the effects of this pandemic have disproportionately impacted our communities of color and low-income workers, who are more likely to be frontline workers and less likely to be able to afford access to quality healthcare. Thankfully, because of the leadership of the new Biden administration, we recently witnessed a record drop in COVID cases and hospitalizations in Alabama; and with over 815,000 vaccine doses administered in our State, hope is finally on the horizon. That said, we have a long way to go before there are enough of the vaccines available to our communities to be really safe from the virus. As this pandemic continues, I know Alabama families are struggling to make ends meet. The time for decisive action is now. I strongly support the American Rescue Plan because it will not only crush the virus, but also help us to get back to schools safely, as well as to provide emergency financial support to struggling families and small businesses. First, the President's American Rescue Plan will create a national vaccination program that will make sure that underrepresented communities are not left behind. The bill also ramps up testing and contact tracing, increases the supply of critically needed PPE, and makes healthcare more accessible by enhancing the Advanced Premium Tax Credit. That was so important to so many Americans who could not afford otherwise to purchase quality healthcare coverage. This is critical in a non-Medicaid expansion State like Alabama, where people have fewer available healthcare coverage options. Secondly, the American Rescue Plan delivers immediate financial relief to working families. This bill would provide critically needed $1,400 economic assistance checks to individuals so we can help families recover and cover the costs of necessary expenses, like childcare, groceries, rent, utilities, and so much more. I also fought to ensure that the unemployment insurance was extended and expanded to $400 a week from $300 a week. This is so important. When we think about the fierce urgency of now, we know that the unemployment, the Federal pandemic unemployment insurance benefits will actually expire March 14 if we do not act. That is why it is so incredibly important that we here in Congress do our part. I also worked with my colleagues in the Ways and Means Committee to ensure that the American Rescue Plan includes important provisions for our most vulnerable families. I am proud that the package includes an additional $7.6 million in childcare funding for the State of Alabama, which will help our frontline and hourly workers, who have been our true heroes in this pandemic. Furthermore, the package provides over $10 million for Alabama through a TANF pandemic emergency fund so that families with necessary emergency needs get the essentials that are so necessary for their survival. I am especially proud this bill will also include lifesaving expansion to child tax credit and earned income tax credit, and I have championed that for many years. In my district alone, 53 percent of the children do not receive the full benefits of this credit because it is not fully refundable. We will make it fully refundable and we will expand it, lifting millions of children out of poverty. This bill also provides direct support to local government, cities, and counties directly who have not benefited from their States directly. This is critically important to small communities and large communities all across this Nation. Finally, the American Rescue Plan supports our small businesses and our frontline workers in our minority communities. In this bill, we expand PPP eligibility and we provide critical resources to our frontline healthcare workers, transit workers, and teachers. Mr. Speaker, economists and healthcare experts agree, if we do not take bold action now, we will have more deaths later and risk an economic downturn. Mr. Speaker, I am asking my colleagues, both Republicans and Democrats, to listen to President Biden's call for bipartisanship and pass this bill. I am reminded during this Black History Month of the powerful words of Dr. Martin Luther King, who said, ``We must use time creatively, in the knowledge that the time is always ripe to do right.'' Mr. Speaker, let's pass this package so that we can begin to Build Back Better and reassure our constituents that help is indeed on the way.

Ms. SEWELL

Ms. SEWELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support impeachment. I do so with a heavy heart and a lasting and searing memory of being in this gallery, the people's House, right up there, fearing for my life. And why? Because the President of the United States incited others to be violent--a mob of insurgents in this House. It is unacceptable. It led to the killing of five Americans. Blood is on this House. We must do something about it. I ask that we move from ``stopping the steal'' to healing. But healing requires accountability, and everyone must be accountable. I will be voting to impeach, and I urge others to vote for impeachment.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of long-serving Alabama State Representative Alvin Holmes of Montgomery. Rep. Holmes dutifully served as a member of the Alabama House of Representatives for 44 years. Rep. Holmes passed away at home at the age of 81. Rep. Holmes was a dedicated public servant and community leader. Rep. Holmes led with dignity and a strong sense of justice throughout his career. He is remembered by colleagues and the community as an individual who knew and acted on what was right, no matter the challenge. He is survived by his daughter, Veronica Holmes. Born in Montgomery on October 26, 1939 to John H. Holmes and Willie Ann Holmes, he was born and raised in Montgomery, AL. Rep. Holmes attended Rochester Business Institute, Alabama State University, Atlanta University, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Alabama, and Jones School of Law. He held a Bachelor of Science degree, Master of Education degree, Master of Arts degree, and a Doctor of Law degree. Rep. Holmes marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a student and fought for the equal treatment of all Americans in every role he served. Rep. Holmes was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, the NAACP, Montgomery Improvement Association, a member of the State Democratic Executive Committee, and was a member of the Hutchinson Missionary Baptist Church. After graduating from Alabama State University, Rep. Holmes was an Alabama delegate to the historic 1968 Democratic National Convention. He was a member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, where he helped lead civil rights demonstrations in between his studies. Rep. Holmes served once more as an Alabama delegate to the 1996 Democratic National Convention. In 1974, Alvin Holmes was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives. During the four decades of his service, Rep. Holmes gave a voice to the voiceless--a champion for equal rights and justice for all citizens. He led multiple efforts to deconstruct the remnants of segregation and to remove racist language from the State Constitution. One of his proudest accomplishments was establishing Martin Luther King Day as a state holiday and encouraging the hiring of African Americans for professional position at the Alabama Legislature. Rep. Holmes spearheaded the annual parade that is held on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. In 1993, Rep. Holmes successfully led the effort to remove the confederate flag from Alabama's State Capitol building. In addition, he sponsored a constitutional amendment to remove an interracial marriage ban from the Alabama Constitution and fought for years to have sexual orientation included in the state hate crime statute. Throughout his career, Rep. Holmes was known to extend his passion for justice by ensuring tax dollars were spent wisely to best serve the people of Montgomery. Rep. Holmes always fought for what was right, a sharp critic and voice of truth in the Alabama Legislature. Rep. Holmes was a rigorous interrogator, often highlighting flaws or unintended consequences in bills and other official actions. During his time on the Contract Review Committee, which oversees state government contracts, Rep. Holmes was a watchful eye of government spending. On a personal note, State Representative Alvin Holmes stood as a towering giant of what was possible as a black Alabamian. For over forty years, his very presence in the Alabama State legislature was a guiding example to boys and girls, like me, that African Americans could get elected and succeed in politics. He was unapologetic about his race and always profound in his rejection of racism and discrimination. He taught us to fight for what we believe in and be willing to stand alone in our convictions. Rep. Holmes paved the way for so many of us to be in positions of power today. I know that I would not be Alabama's first black Congresswoman, if not for his tireless efforts to promote fairness and equity for all in Alabama. The legacy of Rep. Holmes will live on in hearts and minds of all those he touched and for future generations of Alabamians. On behalf of Alabama's 7th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the extraordinary life and service of Alabama State Representative Alvin Holmes and his incredible contributions to the Civil Rights movement, Alabama Legislature and the community of Montgomery.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Robert S. Graetz Jr., a Lutheran minister and heroic Civil Rights Activist who passed away at the age of 92. In 1955, as a white minister Rev. Graetz alongside his wife Mrs. Jeannie Graetz came to Montgomery, Alabama to serve the all black congregation of Trinity Lutheran Church. Demonstrating tremendous courage, Rev. Graetz played a critical role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott by personally sacrificing his time and resources in the fight for equal rights. Born on May 16, 1928 in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Rev. Graetz studied Theology at Capital University in Ohio, where he became interested in civil rights through his studies, founding a campus group to discuss race relations. After graduating in 1950, he attended Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio where he founded the Columbus N.A.A.C.P. chapter. In 1951, Rev. Graetz and Jeannie Ellis were married in East Springfield, Pennsylvania and together they had seven children. Shortly after his arrival in Montgomery, Rev. Graetz became acquainted with the local N.A.A.C.P. youth council director Rosa Parks who held weekly meetings in the church pastored by Rev. Graetz. Rev. Graetz became active in the protest upon learning of the arrest of Rosa Parks. At his next Sunday service, he urged his parishioners to participate in the Bus Boycott and offered them a ride to work. What originally began as a single day on December 5, 1955 turned into over a year of boycotting that ended on December 20, 1956. Rev. Graetz spent three hours every morning driving black members of the community to work. With his increasing involvement, he became an instrumental part of the success of the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Rev. Graetz became the Secretary of the Montgomery Improvement Association, where he worked closely with Rosa Parks and avidly supported Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Rev. Graetz was the only white minister to publicly support the efforts of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, making him and his family a target of the Ku Klux Klan. There were several threats and attempts on Rev. Graetz and his family's lives-- including two firebombs that damaged their home but thankfully harmed no one. Not to be deterred, Rev. Graetz loudly and proudly continued to fight for what he believed was the work of God in securing and defending the equal rights of his black church members. In support of Rosa Parks, he attended her court hearing and even attempted to sit in the colored section in the courtroom. Later, when the FBI urged Rev. Graetz and his family to leave Montgomery for their safety, they refused and remained unwavering in their public support of the Civil Rights Movement. After the end of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Rev. Graetz and his wife Jeannie left Montgomery and returned to Columbus, Ohio in 1958 where Rev. Graetz served another predominantly black congregation. In the following years, he and his wife traveled across the nation to advocate for civil rights--eventually spending 13 years in Washington, D.C. as a lobbyist for marginalized individuals. Throughout his life, Rev. Graetz authored several publications including: A Congregational Guide to Human Relations; An Informed Church Serves a Diverse Society; Montgomery--a White Preacher's Memoir; and A White Preachers Message on Race and Reconciliation--Based on His Experiences Beginning with the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Rev. Graetz also received the following honors: Russwurm Award, National Negro Newspaper Publishers Association; Selma Humanitarian Award; Distinguished Alumnus, Trinity Lutheran Seminary; Doctor of Humanities, Capital University; Ohio Humanitarian Award; Ohio Governor's Humanitarian Award. After returning to Montgomery in 2007, Rev. Graetz and his wife dedicated their service to Alabama State University and hosted the annual Graetz Symposium at the National Center for the Study of Civil Rights and African-American Culture at Alabama State University. On a personal note, I have tremendous respect and admiration for the significant contributions that Rev. and Mrs. Graetz made to fight for civil rights and racial equality in the Montgomery community. Grounded by his faith and genuine belief in the value of all God's children, Rev. Graetz led by example in supporting the Montgomery Bus Boycott. It was the boycott of public transit in Montgomery for 381 days that resulted in the end of racial segregation in commerce across this nation. We owe a debt of gratitude to the personal sacrifice and threats to their lives that Rev. and Mrs. Graetz must have endured in the quest for equality and justice for all. To say thank you doesn't seem enough. May we rededicate ourselves to the cause of racial equality and reconciliation that exemplified the life's work of Reverend Graetz. And may the Lord say--well done thy good and faithful servant, Well Done. On behalf of Alabama's 7th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the extraordinary life and legacy of Reverend Robert S. Graetz, Jr., and his incredible contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Blumenauer for yielding me the time. I rise today in support of H.R. 991, my legislation to reauthorize the Caribbean Basin Trade Promotion Act. Madam Speaker, I thank my Republican colleague, Brad Wenstrup, for his leadership on this bill. I also want to thank Chairman Neal and Ranking Member Brady for all of their help. Madam Speaker, I especially want to acknowledge my chairman of the Subcommittee on Trade, Mr. Blumenauer, for hosting a very meaningful hearing on the Caribbean Basin Trade Promotion Agreement and its importance of being reauthorized by September 30 of this year. For two decades, the Caribbean Basin Trade Promotion Agreement has been a critical tool to expand our diplomatic and economic relationship with countries throughout the Caribbean Basin region. This agreement has allowed for duty- and quota-free treatment of products made with U.S. goods. The liberalization of our trade relationship with these countries has strengthened Western Hemisphere supply chains, while providing economic development and job creation in the region. In 2018, United States exports to CBI countries totalled $13.4 billion, while imports totaled $6 billion, creating a $7.4 billion goods trade surplus for the United States. One of those Caribbean Basin countries, Haiti, has had tremendous economic benefits by the Caribbean Basin Trade Promotion Act. The economic benefits of the CBTPA are essential, with over 90 percent of their nearly $1 billion in exports entering the United States with the CBTPA or HOPE duty-free treatment. Moreover, the Association of Haitian Industries has estimated that the CBTPA, along with the HOPE and HELP programs, has created over 50,000 jobs in Haiti, alone. The reauthorization of this program ahead of the September 30 deadline will allow us to continue to strengthen the foundation for long-term economic stability, while contributing to our diplomatic and security interests. Continued economic development in the region is a goal that we should all share, and the passage of this legislation will reaffirm the commitment of the United States to this objective. The importance of our diplomatic and economic ties with the Caribbean Basin countries is highlighted by the strong support for this legislation that we receive from the Congressional Black Caucus. In a letter of support for H.R. 991 to congressional leadership, the CBC aptly pointed out: Millions of Americans have Caribbean ancestry and make up important segments of the United States population. Haiti is the first Black republic, influencing the rise of abolitionist and anticolonial movements all across the world, especially in the United States. The history and the future for millions of Americans is directly tied to the economic prosperity of Caribbean Basin countries, and our relationship must reflect this reality. Within this context, we also must continue to push our trading partners for compliance with key eligibility criteria under the agreement, including upholding the rights of workers and combating corruption. A lapse in this agreement would jeopardize the economic and social well-being of workers in the region. Today's step forward to reauthorize this very important trade promotion program will allow for continued cooperation and enforcement on these critical issues. I look forward to remaining engaged with all of the stakeholders to support these goals, including expanding human rights and economic prosperity for all. Madam Speaker, I want to thank the Ambassador of Haiti, Ambassador Denis, who testified before the subcommittee, for his eloquence on the importance of the Caribbean Basin Trade Promotion Agreement for Haiti, in particular. Madam Speaker, I also want to thank all of the representatives from the eight Caribbean Basin countries that have come to my office and talked to us ad nauseam about how important it is that we extend the Caribbean Basin reauthorization. As well, Madam Speaker, I would like to also thank Charlie Rangel, who was the member of the House Ways and Means Committee who really championed this initially, two decades ago. When I took Charlie's position on the Ways and Means Committee, he sat me down and told me how important it was that we not only reauthorize, but we strengthen the Caribbean Basin Trade Promotion Agreement. So this is an important step in reauthorizing this very important trade agreement before its September 30 deadline. Madam Speaker, I again want to say how proud I am that this agreement has huge bipartisan support. The reauthorization of this program would not be possible if it had not been for the bipartisan support that my colleague from Ohio, Congressman Wenstrup, has so ably provided, a partnership in this agreement. While debate over U.S. trade policy is often rigorous, the reauthorization of the Caribbean Basin Trade Promotion Agreement should be something that we can all support. Madam Speaker, I am proud that this important issue is before us for a vote, and I urge all of my colleagues to vote in favor of this very important legislation. Again, Madam Speaker, I want to thank Chairman Blumenauer for allowing me to speak on this very important measure.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Robert Edington, a military veteran, former Alabama State Senator and Representative, prominent Mobile area lawyer, dedicated community leader and devoted husband and father. His many years of service to his state and to his country demonstrate his patriotism, his servant heart and his commitment to our American values. Robert Edington was born in Mobile, Alabama to Judge David Henry Edington and Cornelia Owen Edington on November 18, 1929. He studied at Rhodes College as an undergraduate and earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Alabama. In addition to his distinguished military career, Robert practiced law in Mobile, Alabama for over sixty years, establishing himself as one of the preeminent lawyers in the area. A veteran, Robert served on active duty with the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955, and in the Navy Active Reserve from 1955 until his retirement as a Commander in 1980. Robert's exemplary service record was evident in the many awards, medals and accolades he earned throughout his years of selfless service. As Navy Air Operations Officer, Robert was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two Battle Stars; the China Service Medal; the United Nations Service Medal; and the Korean Presidential Unit Citation. Robert further served his state and his country in the Alabama State Legislature, first as a State Representative from 1962 to 1970; and then as State Senator from 1970 to 1974. During his time in the State Legislature, Robert was instrumental in the creation of the University of South Alabama, the University of South Alabama College of Medicine and the development of Bishop State Community College. He also played a lead role in establishing the Alabama Historical Commission and was recognized for his efforts by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, D.C. with their national award. Robert also authored legislation which created the USS Alabama Battleship Commission. Seeing his vision through, Robert served on the commission in during its creation in 1963 through 1972 and later served as its Chairman. During this period, Robert also located and arranged for the Alabama OS2U's transfer and relocation. Owing to his leadership and dedication, Robert was again appointed to the Battleship Commission in the year 2000. Robert has also served as State President and National Director of the Navy League of the United States. In this capacity, he actively supported port visits of U.S. Navy vessels for important occasions, including Mardi Gras. He has also served as President of the CSS Alabama Association USA, where he has overseen tremendous fundraising and artifact recovery. Notably, he oversaw the restoration of a historic cannon which is now on display in the History Museum of Mobile. A dedicated member of the Mobile, Alabama community, Robert was Mobile's Consul to Guatemala for twenty years and organized Mobile's first trade mission to Central America. For his efforts, he was awarded the U.S. Department of Commerce's Achievement Award. Robert served on the National Advisory Board for the U.S. Small Business Administration. He was a member of the Mobile Kiwanis Club and the American Legion. He was named Alumnus of the Year in 2008 by Rhodes College; and served as Director of the Mobile Bar Association Volunteer Lawyer's Program. In 2007, Robert's outstanding contributions to the community were acknowledged when he received the Mobilian of the Year Award. In 2012, Robert received the distinguished honor of being named the 2012 Mobile Area Veteran of the Year. Robert married the love of his life, Patricia Gentry, on June 2, 1962, and together they raised a son Sherard (Courtney Hollins) and a daughter Virginia. He is also survived by his beloved granddaughter, Courtney. Robert was an elder at Spring Hill Presbyterian Church where he taught Sunday school for many years. He also chaired the board of the Montreat Association. On personal note, I am honored to call Robert and Pat Edington my dear friends and I am blessed to be influenced by their wise counsel and infectious commitment to community service. Robert led by example, dedicating his life to love of God, country, family and community. He was always willing to work to improve the lives of others. From his military career to his political and civic engagement, Robert has left an indelible mark on the city of Mobile and the state of Alabama. May we find comfort in knowing that his extraordinary legacy will live on in the many people he impacted. On behalf of the Alabama Congressional Delegation, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the exemplary life and accomplishments of Robert Edington.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7327, the Child Care for Economic Recovery Act. In my State of Alabama, 52 percent of the supply of childcare is projected to be lost as a result of this pandemic. This is a crisis that is not only dire today but may hold lasting damage in our communities without bold actions. We know, Madam Speaker, that the pandemic has disproportionately affected African-American communities and that so often Black workers are on the front lines of being essential workers, especially Black women. They are in greater need of safe, affordable childcare. At the same time, there are many more that are likely to live in underserved and rural communities that simply do not have childcare options. I am proud that this bill will make important investments in our childcare system, including making the child care tax credit fully refundable, expanding funds for the Child Care Entitlement to States program, and expanding childcare tax incentives. These bold investments are critical for the well-being of working parents and their children, especially in underserved communities that I represent. I urge the passage of this bill. Let's protect our children by making sure they have adequate childcare.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise again to honor the life and legacy of John Robert Lewis, a civil rights hero, mentor, and dear friend. It is rare that you grow up to meet your hero and rarer still that you get to befriend them. Growing up in Selma, Alabama, and a lifelong member of Brown Chapel AME Church, year after year, I would sit and marvel at those foot soldiers coming to my church to reenact that Bloody Sunday. There was Coretta Scott King and Joseph Lowery. There was Amelia Boynton Robinson, but, of course, there was John Lewis. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would grow up and become Alabama's first Black congresswoman and not only walk the halls with John Lewis but get to sit on the same committee with John Lewis. John was a slice of home for me in Congress. You see, looking into his eyes, I would see home, and all I would want to do is emulate home. John was a chief deputy whip, so I wanted to be a chief deputy whip. John was on the Ways and Means Committee. Sounded good to me. John was always allowing people to radiate in his smile and in his light. He could never talk about voting rights--if I were within earshot, he would say: ``And Terri Sewell represents Selma. Where is Terri?'' And we would laugh. Those private moments were so precious to me. Those are the moments that I will cherish. When I would call him the boy from Troy, he would call me the girl from Selma. We would laugh at how far our State had come, how far our Nation had come. I would say: ``But, John, we have so much more to do.'' He would remind me that the better days of our Nation were ahead of it. I don't know how I will continue to fight for the right to vote and restore the Voting Rights Act that he shed a little blood on a bridge in my hometown for, but I know that I am not alone, that John has sowed seeds of hope and inspiration into so many of us. We are all disciples of John, and we all owe it to him to pick up that mantle and to continue the march, the march toward a more perfect Union. For, you see, John has sowed seeds in all of us. Can't you hear him? Just close your eyes. If you see something that is unjust, unfair, you have a moral obligation to do something about it, to get in the way. Never give up. Never give in. Keep the faith. Keep your eyes on the prize. Rest in peace, my friend. Know that we all will pick up that mantle and continue your march.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and outstanding legacy of our colleague, friend, mentor, and my hero, Congressman John Robert Lewis. Growing up as a little girl in Selma, Alabama, John's incredible legacy was a hero's tale as familiar to me as any Bible story or family lore. As a little girl singing in the choir, the children's choir at Brown Chapel AME Church, my home church, it was the church where John and so many wonderful foot soldiers would come time and time again to honor the legacy of the Bloody Sunday march. But to know John was to know a man without ego, who, despite his many well-deserved accolades and successes, loved every person he met. He looked them in the eye. Can't you hear him? ``My brother, my sister,'' he would say. John loved this country more than any person who I have met, and it was his deep-seated patriotism that will live on. His legacy, indeed, was the Voting Rights Act. And, we, in this body, can do something about that. Yes, we can name things for John, but the biggest thing that we can do is rename H.R. 4. We should call it the John Robert Lewis Voting Rights Act of 2020 and fully restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965. That is the legacy of John Lewis. He gave us the road map. Can't you hear him? Never give up, never give in. Keep your eyes on the prize. Keep the faith.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Reverend Dr. George Washington Carver Richardson, Jr., a learned and devoted man of faith whose bravery in and commitment to the Civil Rights Movement helped guide the moral trajectory of Alabama, our nation and the world. Born in Geiger, Alabama in Sumter County to George and Louise Richardson, Reverend Richardson moved as a child to Gordo, Alabama where he matriculated through the Pickens County School System. A lifelong man of God, Reverend Richardson began preaching at the tender age of four and was officially licensed to spread God's word by the age of twelve. By sixteen, Reverend Richardson was pastoring several small churches throughout the Alabama countryside. Understanding the unparalleled value of a good education, Reverend Richardson attended and received degrees from a number of schools including his BA from Selma University; an ETA from Southeastern Bible College; Bachelor of Theology from Sunshine Bible College, Master of Divinity from Interdenominational Theological Institute; Master in Religious Education from Sunshine Bible College, Doctor of Divinity from New Era Seminary; Doctor of Humane Letters from Faith Grant College, Existential Degree from Southeastern Bible College; and a LCU Degree from Insurance Underwriters. He also studied at the following schools: Temple University, Sanford University, Southern Christian Bible College, Alabama Christian College, University Bible Institute and Interdenominational Theological Institute. Reverend Richardson spread his God-given gifts far and wide, preaching throughout the United States and spreading the Gospel. He conducted workshops, seminars, revivals and special preaching engagements through which he met kings, princes, presidents and dignitaries from across the globe. He served as Pastor at Maggie Branch Baptist, Union Baptist, Shiloh Baptist and Mt Hebron Baptist. In 1979 he became Pastor of Hutchinson Missionary Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama where he remained for forty-one years until his passing. In addition to his work in the church, Reverend Richardson dedicated himself to many community organizations including the NAACP, SCLC, the Montgomery Improvement Association and the Future Leaders of Montgomery County. He also served on the board of Star Management, Inc.; as President and CEO of SCOM's Ministry; as Chairman of the Board of the Survivor's Prison Ministry; on the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail Advisory Council, and on the board of the Covenant Family Ministries, Inc. Reverend Richardson played an important role in the Civil Rights Movement, belonging to an organization known as ``Friendly Brethren's'', headed by Dr. F.D. Reese of Selma, Alabama. The five members comprising this organization were at the forefront of initiating the Selma Movement and were later supported by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the SCLC, who were sent in as support and who then came to lead the Selma Movement. Reverend Richardson participated in the many mass meetings, marches and demonstrations comprising the movement, most notable the events of Bloody Sunday which would later lead to the passage of the pivotal Voting Rights Act of 1965. Reverend Richardson was also instrumental in the integration of the University of Montevallo. In 1967 he moved to Bessemer, Alabama where he ran for Mayor, making him the first African American to run for a major Alabama political office, opening the door for many future generations of African Americans in Alabama to run for office. As a result of his run, he was taken and beaten by members of the KKK and left for dead, yet he managed to survive and to thrive through the grace of God, continuing to fight for truth and justice. Reverend Richardson was blessed in marriage to Robbye Johnson Richardson, to whom he was joyfully wed for fifty-six years. Together, they shared three loving children, Pastor E. Steven Richardson (Melanie), Georgina Richardson-Alexander (George) and Robert Richardson; six grandchildren, Erica, Steven, Irven, Iven, Tiara and Harmony; two extended grandchildren, Summer and Joshua; and twelve greatgrandchildren. On a personal note, I am very grateful for the guidance, prayers and wise counsel that Reverend Richardson has provided me over the years. Reverend Richardson was a steady anchor in the Montgomery community. As pastor of Hutchinson Missionary Baptist Church, he provided strong leadership to his congregation and made a big difference during his over fifty years of ministerial and public service. Reverend Richardson was a man of faith who lead by example May we find comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on in the many lives that he impacted. On behalf of Alabama's Seventh Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the exemplary life and accomplishments of Reverend Dr. George W.C. Richardson, Jr.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2, the Moving Forward Act. Our country is in serious need of bold and comprehensive infrastructure reform. This was true before the coronavirus pandemic, and it is even more urgent as we combat the ongoing economic and public health crisis. While all communities across the country will benefit from infrastructure reform, this is an important opportunity to create a level playing field and provide critical infrastructure to historically underserved communities. As a member of the Rural Broadband Task Force, I am pleased to see that H.R. 2 provides $100 billion in critical funding for broadband. This will increase access in rural communities, improve affordability for working families and help close the digital divide in rural communities like Alabama's Black Belt. This legislation also provides $40 billion in new wastewater infrastructure which will help address one of the most severe public health crises facing families in my district. As a former bond lawyer, I am proud that this bill offers easier ways for our counties, municipalities, and nonprofits to invest in our local infrastructure. I fought to include provisions like Build America Bonds and my legislation to expand the use of bank-qualified bonds for smaller issuers. These impactful tools will expand infrastructure and investments and lower the costs of financing. Finally, Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2 will also include a bill that I have been trying to get through Congress for a while, and that would be to make permanent the New Markets Tax Credit, which are a vital tool for driving investments in historically underserved communities, and it increases an allocation to jump-start these important projects. Mr. Speaker, the Moving Forward Act will not only expand our investments in critical infrastructure projects, but they would also give communities like mine in Alabama's Black Belt who suffer from a lack of resources and opportunities the chance to catch up and to get ahead. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I am proud to support the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act today because it is high time that we reduce prescription drug costs for all Americans. Likewise, this bill includes provisions to expand access to Medicaid and quality healthcare insurance with expanded tax credits and premium subsidies. This bill includes a provision in the bill--that is, the bill that I have been advocating with my colleagues John Lewis and Mark Veasey for some time now--to ensure that all States that expand Medicaid coverage receive an equal Federal match for expansion, regardless of when they expanded. That means that the 14 States--like Alabama, that I represent--could expand Medicaid and get equal Federal coverage in their match. This provision incentivizes Medicaid expansion because it would help 113 million Americans living in nonexpansion States. In my State alone, over 300,000 more Alabamians would qualify for coverage from Medicaid if we had this bill passed. The writing is on the wall and the facts are clear: Premiums and healthcare costs are higher in States that haven't expanded Medicaid, and over 70 percent of the rural hospital closures are in States that have not expanded Medicaid. The public health emergency and economic crisis that we are currently facing means that more uninsured and more unemployed constituents are more vulnerable. Let's pass this legislation. It will not only expand Medicaid and give Medicaid expansion opportunities with equal Federal match in States like Alabama, but it would also decrease prescription drug costs and protect the preexisting conditions that are so important for all Americans. This is an important tool, providing our States with enhanced Federal matching funds to ensure Medicaid is one of the best tools that we have to help the communities we represent now and into the future. I urge my colleagues to support this important bill.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Justice in Policing Act. Over the past few weeks, we have seen tens of thousands of Americans take to the street demanding justice not only for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery, but also for the countless unnamed Black Americans across the country who have been killed by the police. The stark reality is that police brutality is a symptom of a larger problem, and that problem is systemic racism. Mr. Speaker, Black lives matter. While we cannot legislate away what is in the hearts of people, we can work to ensure that those in power are held accountable for their actions. The Justice in Policing Act is bold, transformative legislation that will change the culture of law enforcement, and it would also help build trust between law enforcement and our communities by addressing systemic racism. Mr. Speaker, the streets are crying out for bold and transformational change. Let's make sure that the people know that we see them, that we hear them, and that at last we are doing something about it. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support our HEROES Act. This bill will provide $375 billion in support directly to local governments, which would mean millions of dollars for my counties and my towns in my district of Alabama. These funds will help our communities with their lost revenues while protecting the jobs of those essential workers. Mr. Speaker, I stand with the heroes and sheroes of Alabama, and I ask for all to support this bill, because we are dying in numbers, and we need to make sure that we are doing all that we can to protect the lives and livelihoods of all Americans. Mr. Speaker, I ask for a ``yes'' vote on the HEROES Act. Let's stand with our heroes.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, today I rise in support of this bill to provide additional resources for small, local, and minority- owned businesses and nonprofits under the Paycheck Protection Program, as well as to provide resources for our hospitals and for testing. Madam Speaker, the Paycheck Protection Program has not been without its controversy. I have heard too many stories of frustrated business owners who have not been able to access the program due to a lack of existing relationships with a lender or difficulty navigating the complex application process. And these are issues that are disproportionately harming local, rural, and minority-owned businesses that make up the heart of my district. Madam Speaker, I am glad that we are taking steps today to address the inequities and indirectly and directly allow funding for lenders that service the truly local barber shops, beauty shops, restaurants on Main Street across this country. These are the businesses that are the lifeline of so many of our local economies, and it is important that we make sure that this lending gets to these vitally important businesses. I hope that this bill will offer some relief to these businesses, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill. I also ask our leaders and the lenders to know that we are watching them. We want the truly small, local businesses to get their fair share.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Katherine Johnson, one of the first African American women ever to work at NASA, whose brilliant mind and countless contributions helped to make both flight in space and our space center in Huntsville, Alabama, possible. Mrs. Johnson spent thirty-five years at NASA, during which time she used her remarkable mind to master even the most complex manual calculations and helped to pioneer the early use of computers. Her work was instrumental to launching Alan Shepard, the first American in space and John Glenn, the first American in orbit. Mrs. Johnson worked at NASA during a time when African American women were largely banned from taking advantage of such career opportunities, however, her grit, determination and indubitable brilliance helped her to persist, tearing down barriers for African Americans and for women. At eighteen, Mrs. Johnson enrolled at the historically black West Virginia State College, where she found a mentor in math professor W. W. Schieffelin Claytor, the third African American to earn a PhD in mathematics. She graduated with highest honors in 1937 and took a job teaching at an African American public school in Virginia. In 1939, West Virginia State's president, Dr. John W. Davis, selected Mrs. Johnson and two other African American men to be the first black students to attend West Virginia University, which was historically white. Mrs. Johnson resigned from her teaching job and enrolled in the graduate math program to become a full-time student. She did not complete her degree, deciding instead to leave school to start a family with her first husband, James Goble. She returned to teaching when her children got older. In 1952, a relative told Mrs. Johnson about a job opportunity at the all-black West Area Computing section at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics' (NACA's) Langley laboratory. Mrs. Johnson and her husband decided to move the family to Newport News, Virginia, to pursue the opportunity, and Katherine began work at Langley in the summer of 1953. Just two weeks into her tenure in the office, she was assigned to a project in the Maneuver Loads Branch of the Flight Research Division. She spent the next four years analyzing data from flight tests and worked on the investigation of a plane crash caused by wake turbulence. Just as she was completing this work, her husband died of cancer in December 1956. In 1957, Russia launched Sputnik, the first successful satellite to be launched into space, and the United States immediately began efforts to beat Russia and become the first country to put a man into space. Mrs. Johnson was selected to provide math for ``Notes on Space Technology,'' a collection formed by NACA engineers who became part of NASA when that agency was formed in 1958. Mrs. Johnson went on to do the trajectory analysis for America's first human space flight by astronaut Alan Shepard in 1961. She worked closely with Ted Skopinksi, a male engineer, to co-author ``Determination of Azimuth Angle at Burnout for Place a Satellite Over a Selected Earth Position,'' a report on the equations for an orbital spaceflight with a landing site target. It was the first time a woman in NASA's Flight Research Division received credit for authoring a research report. In 1962, John Glenn was preparing for his orbital flight and was hesitant to trust the new computers' calculation of his orbital trajectory. He relied on Mrs. Johnson to cite her calculations on syncing the Apollo Lunar Model with the orbiting Command and Service Module. This was known as Mrs. Johnson's greatest contribution. After this successful event, she authored and co-authored 26 research reports before retiring in 1986. Mrs. Johnson was then awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama, and played by Taraji P. Henson in the movie ``Hidden Figures'' about NASA's black women pioneers. Mrs. Johnson fought through discrimination and adversity, proving to America and to the entire world not only that African Americans were just as capable as white Americans, but that women were just as capable as men. In many ways, she displayed even more patriotism, as she overcame adversity in order to serve her country. Katherine Johnson's legacy is one that should make the state of Alabama truly proud. She is a part of Alabama's remarkable legacy of advocating for civil rights, proving that the determination of African American women can charge the course of history, not only for our country but for the entire world. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Alabama's 7th Congressional District, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the exemplary service of Katherine Johnson. May we celebrate her resilience and sacrifice every day.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Alabama State Legislature's joint resolution which recognizes March 7 as Tuskegee Airmen Day. House Joint Resolution 120 will acknowledge the honor and valor of those Tuskegee Airmen who risked their lives in defense of our country, despite racism, prejudice and segregation. In 1941, a group of African American men in Tuskegee, Alabama, joined together to form an all-African American squadron of pilots known as the Tuskegee Airmen. This squadron fought fiercely overseas on behalf of the United States of America during World War II, proving that patriotism and love of country conquers even the cruelest forms of bigotry. Segregation barred African Americans from enlisting alongside white Americans, and prior to the Tuskegee Airmen, the United States had never had an African American military pilot. After being rejected from enlisting during World War I, African Americans spent more than two decades advocating for the right to enlist and train as military aviators. With help from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, labor union leader A. Philip Randolph and Judge William H. Hastie, these advocates were successful in passing Appropriations Bill Public Law 18 with an amendment by Senator Harry H. Schwartz of Wyoming, which designated funds for training African American pilots. The money was then invested in civilian flight schools willing to train African American pilots. In June of 1941, the 99th Pursuit Squadron at Tuskegee University was founded. The unit consisted of 47 officers and 429 enlisted men who began primary training at Moton Field before moving to the Tuskegee Air Field about ten miles to the west for conversion training. Tuskegee Air Field mirrored existing all-white air fields like Maxwell Air Field only forty miles away, providing African American pilots with the same rigorous training as white Americans. Major Noel F. Parrish advocated for the Tuskegee Airmen to be allowed to enter into combat, petitioning Washington, D.C. on their behalf. Eventually, in 1943, the Tuskegee Airmen were deemed eligible for combat and were sent to North Africa to join the 33rd Fighter Group under the command of Colonel William W. Momyer. Given little guidance from experienced combat pilots, the Tuskegee Airmen flew toward Italy where they attacked the small and strategically located volcanic island of Pantelleria. The island eventually surrendered, and the Airmen flew on to Sicily, receiving a Distinguished Unit Citation. The men went on to fight with heart and valor throughout World War II, proving to America and to the entire world that African Americans were just as capable as white Americans of serving their country. In many ways, these men displayed even more patriotism, as they actively fought to overcome barriers in order to serve and protect. The Tuskegee Airmen's legacy is one that should make the state of Alabama truly proud. These men are part of Alabama's remarkable legacy of advocating for civil rights, proving that the determination of African American Alabamians can charge the course of history, not only for our country but for the entire world. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Alabama's 7th Congressional District, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the exemplary service of the Tuskegee Airmen, and to the Alabama State Legislature for acknowledging their service through the passage of House Joint Resolution 120. May we celebrate the resilience and sacrifice of the Tuskegee Airmen not only on March 7, but every day.

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I was not present for votes on March 2, 2020 due to family medical matters in Alabama. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on H.R. 5003, the Fair Debt Collection Practices for Servicemembers Act and YEA on H.R. 5932, the Ensuring Chinese Debt Transparency Act of 2020

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama

Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Derrick Lamar Richardson, an intelligent, kind, hard-working man of faith and determination, who passed away on February 14, 2020. Derrick joined our staff as district press secretary for Alabama's 7th Congressional District in Janua1y of 2016 and served his home district with distinction until August of 2017. Born on October 31, 1972 to Lovenia Richardson in Birmingham, Alabama, Derrick professed his love for Christ at an early age. For many years, Derrick attended Maple Grove Church of God with his grandmother, Ada Ford, and it was there that he was granted his deep and abiding faith. Throughout his life, Derrick's faith served as a foundational pillar of strength, guidance and wisdom, giving Derrick the courage to face whatever challenges crossed his path. Derrick received his education in the Birmingham City School System, attending Hillman Elementary School and matriculating from Parker High School in 1991. As a high school student, Derrick was an active participant in the Marching Thundering Herd Band, where he played the tuba. During his junior year at Parker High School, Derrick's devotion to his country compelled him to enlist in the Army National Guard and Reserves. Before his senior year of high school, Derrick attended boot camp at Fort McClellan in Anniston, Alabama, and upon graduation, went on to attend the Army Communications School at Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia. During his military service, Derrick served as a Legal Support Specialist in the 167th COSCOM (Headquarters Co.): JAG Corp. in Ft. Clayton, Panama, the 81st Regional Support Command: JAG Corp. in Homewood, Alabama and the 131st Signal Battalion (Headquarters Co.): Signal Corp. in Birmingham, Alabama. Derrick received two Meritorious Service Citations for Outstanding Performance and an honorable discharge. After his military service in 1995, Derrick enrolled at Jacksonville State University, where he soon became involved in the Student Government Association and the National Pan-Hellenic Council. At Jacksonville State University, Derrick became a member of his beloved fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., a brotherhood and network that would serve him as an invaluable support system for many years to come. At Jacksonville State University, Derrick also had an opportunity to pursue his passion for politics. In 1999, he graduated with a bachelor's degree in political science; and after graduation went on to attend Long Island University, where he graduated Cum Laude with a master's degree in Urban Policy. Professionally, Derrick continued to pursue his passion for politics, working up and down the east coast, from Alabama to Maryland to New York to Washington, D.C. He worked across the political spectrum, for campaigns, as a lobbyist and in this Congressional office. Derrick's impressive resume includes: co-founding the lobbying firm Epps, Richardson and Associates; serving as the first African American Director of Public Policy for the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce; serving as the Senior Director for State and Regional affairs for the Center for American Progress in Washington, D.C.; serving as the Legislative Budget Director for the New York City Council; serving as the Director of Domestic Policy for the Lutheran Church in America; and serving as the Manager of Government Relations for Van Scoyoc Associates in Washington, D.C. Derrick joined our office in 2016 and served as District Press Secretary, devoting his considerable talents to addressing the challenges faced by Alabama's 7th Congressional District of Alabama, including unemployment, career and college readiness, economic viability and civil rights. Derrick then became the inaugural Executive Director of the Alabama Alliance of the Boys and Girls Club. There, he brought his same fierce commitment to justice and equal opportunity, lending his ample professional experience to expanding and uplifting the work of the Boys and Girls Club. Over the years, Derrick's many accomplishments have been recognized with numerous awards, including: The Veteran of Influence Award from the Birmingham Business Journal; the Maryland Gubernatorial Proclamation for Outstanding Public Service; and the Alabama Legislative Black Caucus Award for Trailblazer and Successful Lobbyist. Derrick leaves behind his mother, Lovenia Hart, his wife, State Representative Merika Coleman; his children, Jonathan, Dara Elisa, Elexia and Xaviar; his brothers, Everett Howard and Gerald (Grace) Richardson; a very devoted cousin/little brother, Tionne Birdsong; three nieces; two nephews; one very devoted sister/cousin, Barbara Birdsong; and a host of cousins, friends, frat brothers and church family. On a personal note, Derrick was a beloved member of our congressional staff. I was honored that Derrick joined us on our journey to move Alabama's 7th District forward. He was an outstanding press secretary who used his talents and strong work ethic to passionately advocate for the people of his home district. I am forever grateful that Derrick played such a special role in our journey. We will certainly miss his kindness, his gentle spirit, his sharp wit and his compassionate heart; but we know that Derrick's legacy will live on through the many lives he has impacted. May we honor Derrick's life by recommitting ourselves to the causes he cared about and the community he loved so much. Rest in peace, Derrick. Always Team Sewell. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Alabama's 7th Congressional District, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the exemplary life of Derrick Lamar Richardson, a true servant leader who led by example.