U.S Representative Sheila Jackson-Lee, representing the Texas 18th congressional district, was a fixture on the local, national, and world stages, championing progressive policies as well as engaging with the international community. She is more recently known for authoring and serving as the lead sponsor of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which established the first new federal holiday in 38 years which was signed by President Joe Biden in 2021.
In May 2024, she reintroduced the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, a bill that would create federal police reform by limiting the use of force and restrict the use of no-knock warrants, chokeholds, and carotid holds. It would also lower the criminal intent standard to convict a law enforcement officer for misconduct in a federal prosecution and limit qualified immunity as a defense to liability in a private civil action against a law enforcement officer. Jackson-Lee’s political career began in Houston, TX as a municipal judge from 1987 to 1990. She then went on to win an At-Large Houston City Council seat where she served from 1990 – 1994. In 1994, then Houston City Councilwoman Sheila Jackson Lee won her Congressional District seat and held that position through July 2024. For nearly 30 years Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee offered meaningful legislation and personable interactions with her constituents and governmental leaders alike.
In a statement from her family, Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee is described as someone with a near-ubiquitous presence who took on courageous fights for racial justice, criminal justice, human rights, and special emphasis on women and children. Jack-son Lee served on the House Judiciary, Homeland Security and Budget Committees. At the time of her death, Sheila Jackson-Lee was a chief deputy whip for House Democrats and a vice chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. She formerly served as whip of the Congressional Black Caucus. In President Biden’s statement he wrote, “Sheila Jackson Lee was a great American. I had the honor of working with her during her nearly 30 years in Congress. No matter the issue – from delivering racial justice to building an economy for working people – she was unrelenting in her leadership. Always fearless, she spoke truth to power and represented the power of the people of her district in Houston with dignity and grace.”
According to Vice President Kamala Harris’ statement, “Sheila Jackson Lee was, first and foremost, a leader dedicated to serving the people of her beloved city. She secured critical funding for much-needed infrastructure upgrades, coordinated disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, and helped to stand up testing and vaccination sites during the COVID-19 pandemic. No task was too small so long as it was the right thing to do. She was always fighting for the people of Houston and the people of America.” Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is survived by her husband Dr. Elwyn Lee, her children Jason Lee and Erica Lee Carter, and her grandchildren Ellison Bennett Carter and Roy Lee Carter, III. Her impact, however, extends throughout the world leaving a legacy of leadership and service.
THE HONORABLE CONGRESSWOMEN SHEILA JACKSON LEE
Th e Honorable Congresswomen Sheila
Jackson Lee was a great American, Leader, and Congresswomen. Always ready to speak truth to power and she represented the people of her district in Houston with dignity and grace. Her character showed itself time and time again, including in her battle against cancer. Her spirit was unbreakable! She was still making ways to help others.
Cliff dale Baptist Church appreciates and honors you for everything you have done for our Church ministry, as well as the Acres Homes Community. No matter the issue, she was always working for the betterment of the people – she was unrelentless in her leadership and loved her community.
–Pastor Fred & Deborah Sanders Cliff dale Baptist Church
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
