Leaders unite to honor Houston icon U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) is seen during a House Homeland Security Committee markup session of articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas at the Capitol on January 30, 2024.

HOUSTON (KIAH) — Former presidents and state and local leaders expressed their condolences to Houston political icon Sheila Jackson Lee. A statement was released by her family Friday night announcing her death. She was 74.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was a friend and mentor to me, and a champion of her community. I will miss her greatly, as will our entire community. The Congresswoman was never afraid to lend her courageous voice to move mountains, not only for her constituents, but for all Harris County residents and any place she could make a difference. Her strength and endurance were truly endless, and her determination to rally a choir to the wick of justice was unwavering. Just two days ago, my friend smiled as we discussed the progress of hurricane recovery and navigating local politics. Two weeks before, she had worked with me to strategize how to save a federal transportation investment that was under threat. We will remember her groundbreaking career, her intelligence, her passion, and her ability to weather storm after storm as a strong woman in politics. My condolences go out to her family, friends and the community who know how hard she fought for us.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo

I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. From City Hall to the halls of Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee served her constituents well. She wrote and passed key legislation and stood in the United States House of Representatives to passionately advocate for her constituency and the country she loved. She worked with and advised the presidents of our great country, met with world leaders, and was hosted by world-renowned artists. But her work on the ground in some of the poorest and most under-resourced communities, moving billions of federal dollars to her constituency, being at someone’s bedside, offering words of comfort to families who lost loved ones, her appearances at houses of worship and at events that highlighted our city’s global diversity, and her uncanny ability to be everywhere, working every day for those who needed an advocate, made her truly exceptional.

When she was elected to the United States House of Representatives, she stood in the shadow of Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland, and Craig Washington. Without a doubt, she rose to the occasion and served with great distinction. Even if you didn’t agree with her politics, you had to respect her work ethic. We can honestly say that Sheila Jackson Lee gave it her all on the field. Rest in peace my sister. Thank you for all you gave us. And thank you to her family for sharing her with us. We will not forget her sacrifice or yours. Sheila – to God be the glory for the good you did. It was truly a job well done!

Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

We extend our prayers and condolences to her family. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate her life and accomplishments. Congresswoman Jackson Lee was a true champion of justice. She served in the United States House of Representatives for 30 years and always demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving all of us, but especially the poorest and most disadvantaged among us. As a Congresswoman, she accomplished many things, including leading the effort to have Juneteenth recognized as a national holiday. With her booming and inspiring voice, Congresswoman Jackson Lee spoke truth to power in Texas and Washington, D.C., and kept her finger on the pulse of the African American population in Texas.

TEXAS NAACP REMEMBERS SHEILA JACKSON LEE

Full statement below…

Surrounded by her family, Congresswoman Jackson Lee leaves behind an iconic legacy that will stand the test of time. Known for her fierce advocacy, the Congresswoman dedicated her life to public service, civil rights, health care reform, and disaster recovery. This unwavering commitment to her constituents in Houston’s 18th District made Congresswoman Jackson Lee one of the most respected and influential figures in the United States House of Representatives. The Texas Democratic Party extends its deepest condolences to the Congresswoman’s family, friends, colleagues, and constituents during this time of mourning. And in the spirit of Sheila Jackson Lee’s legacy, we move forward in our fierce commitment to fighting for justice, equality, and opportunity for all.

Gilberto Hinojosa, Chairman of the Texas Democratic Party

Tonight and forever, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. Her tireless commitment to justice and equality inspired us all. Congresswoman Jackson Lee was on the front lines of the civil rights struggle, embodying the spirit of the great leaders who came before her. Her unwavering advocacy for criminal justice reform, access to health care, and the rights of marginalized communities transformed countless lives.

Congresswoman Jackson Lee’s passion was matched only by her relentless pursuit of change. From her efforts to reform the criminal justice system to advocating for health care for all, her work transcended the boundaries of politics. She fought for the voiceless, ensuring that every person had a seat at the table.

In the halls of Congress and beyond, Sheila Jackson Lee’s voice rang with strength and conviction. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us that true leadership is defined by service and an unwavering dedication to justice. Well done, your good and faithful servant. Rest in peace, Congresswoman.

Texas Democratic Party Treasurer Odus E. Evbagharu

Sheila Jackson Lee was a courageous fighter for the people of Houston, one of our country’s most effective leaders, and a wonderful friend to Hillary and me.

Former President Bill Clinton

My longtime friend, ally, and political partner, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, has left this world to join the pantheon of legendary Texas leaders. For nearly 30 years, she tirelessly represented the people of her district.

Through crises and disasters, as well as triumphs, Sheila’s unwavering and unwavering dedication to those she represented has been a source of inspiration and strength in my career. She demonstrated this dedication every day through her actions, deeds and accomplishments. She was a beloved mother, grandmother and confidant who leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to our community.

Remembering those who have gone before us is the greatest tribute we can pay to those we love. And I know that Sheila Jackson Lee will be remembered for many years to come.

Statement from Commissioner Ellis on the death of MP Sheila Jackson Lee

Tonight, I join my fellow Houstonians, my colleagues in Congress, and all citizens across our country in mourning the loss of my friend and colleague, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. For decades, Congresswoman Jackson Lee worked tirelessly to defend our community, our country, and our Constitution, serving with passion, perseverance, and determination. All Houstonians benefited from her strong leadership, hard work, and unwavering dedication to public service, from City Council to Congress. And all Americans benefited, and will continue to benefit for generations to come, from her efforts to ensure justice, equality, and freedom throughout our nation.

Statement from MP Lizzie Fletcher on the death of MP Sheila Jackson Lee

Words cannot fully express the impact of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. The word “tireless” is often used in politics, but I have never met anyone with the work ethic that can compare to Congresswoman Jackson Lee. Her work not only benefited the Houstonians she represented for decades; it helped make our nation better for all Americans. To say she will be missed is an understatement. My condolences to her family and all who loved her. Thank you, Congresswoman, for your dedication to our city, our county, our state, and our country.

Adrian Garcia, Commissioner of Harris County Precinct 2

While we have had policy disagreements, there have been many moments with her, both public and private, that have shown me that bipartisanship and service to country first can still bring members of Congress together.

Statement from Wesley Hunt on Representative Shelia Jackson Lee

During these divisive times, Congresswoman Lee and I were able to collaborate on several legislative initiatives for the City of Houston. Her unwavering commitment to serving the people of Houston and her tireless work have left an indelible mark on our community and our nation.

Statement from Representative Wesley Hunt on the Death of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

It is with heavy hearts that I learn of the passing of MP Sheila Jackson Lee. It is no secret that we had a close family relationship and that over the years, the MP became a mentor and friend.

Tonight, our nation lost a champion for democracy and justice. Tonight, our community lost a fighter who was always there when needed. Tonight, the most marginalized Americans lost a steadfast ally. As a father of two daughters, I can only pray that Chelsea and I will be able to raise them to be as fierce as Congresswoman Jackson Lee. Our prayers go out to the Congresswoman’s family and all those she holds dear. Now it is up to each of us to continue the fight in her honor and legacy.

Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy Pays Tribute to the Late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee

I am sorry for the loss of MP Sheila Jackson Lee. I have known Sheila since I was hired as a young law professor at the University of Houston. She has always been a fighter, a pioneer, and a friend. Her legacy will live on.

U.S. Senator from Massachusetts Elizabeth Warren

The world has lost a true champion of justice! Let’s stand with our sisters, Rep. Sheila Jackson LeeYour family and loved ones are in prayer. Rest in peace, Queen.

Ben Crump

As a founding member of the Black Heritage Committee, we extend our sincere thanks to MP Sheila Jackson Lee for his support of the Houston Livestock Show and rodeo. His dedication to rodeo and the Houston community will not be forgotten.

Rodeo Houston

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