Sheila Jackson Lee: A Powerful Advocate for Change and Progress, Died at Age 74

Sheila Jackson Lee

Sheila Jackson Lee: A Life of Service and Advocacy

A Dedicated Public Servant

Democratic Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a long-time advocate of Black Lives Matter, passed away at the age of 74. As a U.S. Representative from Texas, she was known for her unwavering dedication to her constituents and her fierce advocacy for social justice. Her family stated, “A fierce champion of the people, she was affectionately and simply known as ‘Congresswoman’ by her constituents in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service to their daily lives for more than 30 years.”

Chart summarizing the personal information and career details of Sheila Jackson Lee:

CategoryDetails
Full NameSheila Jackson Lee
BornJanuary 12, 1950
BirthplaceNew York City, U.S.
DiedJuly 19, 2024
Death PlaceHouston, Texas, U.S.
Age at Death74 years
Political PartyDemocratic
SpouseElwyn Lee (m. 1973)
Children2
EducationYale University (BA)
University of Virginia (JD)
PositionMember of the U.S. House of Representatives
DistrictTexas’s 18th district
In Office (House of Representatives)January 3, 1995 – July 19, 2024
Preceded by (House of Representatives)Craig Washington
Succeeded by (House of Representatives)Vacant
PositionMember of the Houston City Council
DistrictAt-large district
In Office (City Council)January 2, 1990 – January 3, 1995
Preceded by (City Council)Anthony Hall
Succeeded by (City Council)John Peavy

A Champion for Human Rights

Sheila Jackson Lee was a prominent voice in the fight for racial justice, criminal justice reform, and human rights, with a particular focus on women and children. Her work gained her international recognition and respect as a humanitarian. She was an outspoken progressive voice in the Democratic Party, tirelessly advocating for African-American and women’s rights throughout her career.

Courage in the Face of Illness

Last month, Jackson Lee announced that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and was undergoing treatment. In her announcement, she expressed her determination, saying, “The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me.” Despite her illness, she remained active in her legislative duties and continued to fight for her constituents.

Sheila Jackson Lee died on Friday amid her battle with pancreatic cancer. She was one of the longest serving members of Texas’ Congressional delegation. Credit: Eddie Gaspar/The Texas Tribune

Legislative Achievements

Throughout her career, Jackson Lee promoted legislation addressing social justice, economic inequality, and public health concerns. One of her significant legislative efforts was the introduction of a bill in the House of Representatives to make “Juneteenth” a federal holiday, commemorating the end of legal enslavement of Black Americans. The holiday marks the day in 1865 when a Union general informed a group of enslaved people in Texas that they had been made free two years earlier by President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

A Legacy Remembered

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a conservative Republican, paid tribute to Jackson Lee, stating, “Cecilia and I will forever remember Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. She was a proud Texan and a tireless advocate for the people of Houston. Her legacy of public service and dedication to Texas will live on.” Jackson Lee represented Texas’s 18th district in the U.S. House of Representatives from January 3, 1995, until her death on July 19, 2024. She previously served on the Houston City Council from January 2, 1990, to January 3, 1995.

Congressional Tenure and Progressive Policies

During her time in Congress, Sheila Jackson Lee was a staunch supporter of many progressive policies. She introduced the Essential Transportation Worker Identification Credential Assessment Act in 2013 and the Sabika Sheikh Firearm Licensing and Registration Act in 2021.

Leadership Roles and Controversies

In 2019, Jackson Lee stepped down as chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and from a subcommittee in the House Judiciary after a former staffer filed a lawsuit, claiming she was fired due to her planned legal action against an alleged rape by a supervisor.

2023 Houston Mayoral Election

In March 2023, Jackson Lee announced her candidacy for the Houston mayoral election. She placed second in the first round behind state senator John Whitmire. However, as no candidate crossed the 50% threshold to win outright, a runoff election took place on December 9, 2023. Despite receiving several key endorsements, Jackson Lee lost the election in a landslide to Whitmire.

Return to Congress

Following her defeat in the mayoral race, Jackson Lee filed to run for re-election to her congressional seat on December 11, 2023. She successfully won the Democratic primary on March 5, 2024.

Passing

Sheila Jackson Lee passed away from cancer in July 2024.

Final Thoughts

Sheila Jackson Lee’s dedication to her constituents and her tireless work for social justice will be remembered and honored. Her impact on legislation, her community, and the nation will continue to inspire future generations. https://www.reuters.com/world/us/sheila-jackson-lee-strong-democratic-voice-us-congress-has-died-family-says-2024-07-20/

Kinky Friedman Dies at 79-Legendary Satirist and Beloved Musician”

Remembering Kinky Friedman: A Rabble-Rousing Man of Letters

Kinky Friedman, the Texas-born musician, writer, satirist, dog enthusiast, gubernatorial candidate, and unabashed provocateur, passed away at age 79 after battling Parkinson’s at his Echo Hill Ranch in TX, according to an announcement on his X account. Known for his sharp wit and flamboyant style, he was a larger-than-life figure in Texas culture, often outshining his renowned friends like Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Larry McMurtry, and Billy Bob Thornton with his colorful persona.

Personal Details

  • Birth Name: Richard Samet Friedman
  • Born: October 31, 1944, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
  • Died: June 26, 2024 (aged 79), Medina, Texas, U.S.
  • Education: University of Texas, Austin (BA)

Musical Career

  • Genres: Country, progressive country, country rock, outlaw country
  • Instruments: Vocals, guitar
  • Years Active: 1964–2018

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Kinky Friedman, born Richard Samet Friedman on October 31, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, rose to prominence in the music world during the early and mid-1970s with his band Kinky Friedman and the Texas Jewboys. His music, characterized by absurdist, satirical lyrics delivered in a folksy cowboy style, garnered attention for its provocative titles and irreverent humor. Notable songs include “Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in Bed” and “Ride ‘Em Jewboy.”

Political and Literary Pursuits

Friedman, known for his colorful personality and unconventional style, also ventured into politics. He affiliated with the Republican Party before 2004, ran as an independent from 2004 to 2009, and later joined the Democratic Party from 2009 until his passing. Beyond music and politics, Friedman found success as a writer, penning hard-boiled crime novels reminiscent of Raymond Chandler, often featuring himself as the protagonist.

Advocate for Animal Welfare

In addition to his artistic and political endeavors, Friedman was deeply committed to animal welfare. He founded the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch in Texas, providing care for numerous stray, abused, and aging animals.

Legacy

Kinky Friedman’s legacy spans music, literature, and political satire, leaving an indelible mark on each. His provocative humor and satirical genius challenged societal norms while his advocacy for animals reflected his compassion and humanity. Friedman’s impact on music and culture will be remembered for generations to come.

Best Songs

  • Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in Bed
  • They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore
  • Ride ‘Em Jewboy
  • Asshole from El Paso
  • The Ballad of Charles Whitman

Notable Albums

  • Sold American (1973)
  • Kinky Friedman (1974)
  • Lasso from El Paso (1976)
  • Live from Austin, TX (2007)

Books

  • Greenwich Killing Time (1986)
  • A Case of Lone Star (1987)
  • When the Cat’s Away (1988)
  • The Love Song of J. Edgar Hoover (1996)

Movies

  • Roadie (1980)
  • The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2 (1986)
  • The Ballad of the Sad Café (1991)

Kinky Friedman’s multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to his beliefs continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.