| WASHINGTON,
D.C. -- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Patsy Mink, a leader, a visionary,
a mentor, and a true advocate for so many who had no voice. Patsy
Mink was a woman I looked up to, learned from, and was inspired by.
As the first woman of color elected to the U.S. Congress in 1964, Patsy
knew what it meant to break down barriers. Her passion was for those
who were otherwise forgotten or pushed to the side.
Patsy
was a strong fighter for women’s rights. Her leadership in the fight
for equality for women and girls in education and sports has made an everlasting
impact on this country. The passage of Title IX has literally changed
the lives of millions of young girls and women. It opened the doors
to countless opportunities for women and girls and allowed us to dream
bigger than we ever had before. It allowed more people to see women
as Olympic athletes and competitors. It allowed parents to see their
daughters as softball players and runners. It challenged school administrators
and coaches to see the potential in female athletes and embrace it.
Patsy
was a relentless fighter for low-income and poor families. She had
great compassion for those who were struggling against the odds to work
and provide for their families. She wasn’t afraid to make her voice
heard in standing up for fair treatment of women receiving welfare benefits,
workers’ rights and fair pay, and children who were lacking food or a good
education. Patsy was a fearless fighter for the environment.
She helped protect Hawaii’s natural beauty in national parks and worked
at the local level to help communities preserve their lands. Patsy
was a lifelong fighter for civil rights. She knew what it meant to
stand up in the face of adversity and she worked hard to break down barriers
so those coming after her would instead experience justice and equality.
Patsy
was tough and passionate. I can see her now shaking her small but
mighty fist as she eloquently challenged an injustice. Patsy was
a pioneer and a trailblazer. As we honor the memory of Patsy Mink
today, we should also think about the future that she would want and work
to achieve it. Patsy would want us to pass a Labor/HHS bill that
truly leaves no child behind. She would want us to fully fund the
Women’s Education Equity Act. She wanted to see passage of a welfare
bill that lifts women and children out of poverty, not just off the welfare
rolls. Patsy wants us to make sure that all people have a fair chance.
Today,
as I mourn with my colleagues and extend my condolences to her family and
to the people of Hawaii, I honor the memory of Patsy Mink and all that
she stood for. And I deeply miss her beautiful smile. |
