Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat from Texas, has passed away at the age of 74 after battling cancer, as announced by her family. Known for her advocacy for civil rights, she served in the House of Representatives since 1995. She was praised for her work on racial justice, human rights, and criminal justice, with a focus on issues impacting women and children.
Jackson Lee was a lead sponsor of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act and pushed for the Sentencing Reform Act of 2015, as well as the George Floyd Law Enforcement Trust and Integrity Act. She was a member of the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget committees. In June, she disclosed her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and was undergoing treatment at the time of her passing.
Her family expressed deep grief for their loss but also gratitude for the life she shared with them. They highlighted her significant impact as a local, national, and international humanitarian. Jackson Lee’s legacy includes her courageous fights for justice and equality, and her contributions to important legislation related to civil rights. Her passing marks the end of an era in American politics, leaving behind a lasting impression on the issues she championed throughout her long and distinguished career in public service.
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