[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 148 (Wednesday, November 30, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: November 30, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                        TRIBUTE TO R. STEVEN POPE

                                 ______


                            HON. BOB FILNER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 29, 1994

  Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a good friend and 
community activist who recently passed away due to complications from 
AIDS--R. Steven Pope.
  Steven always worked to make life better for everyone--believing that 
activism was better than lip service, progress better than the status 
quo, and surrender unacceptable.
  Since 1968, Steven was active in numerous political campaigns for 
Democratic candidates and causes. He worked to increase liberties and 
achieve equality for all Americans through the political process. He 
never tired in his passionate commitment to open the doors of 
democratic participation to everyone. His politics were principled long 
before the age of political correctness.
  His diagnosis with AIDS in 1987 did not stop him--instead prompting 
him to greater involvement and activism. He served several terms as 
vice president of the San Diego Democratic Club and was recently 
elected to a third term to the County Democratic Central Committee. He 
was a delegate to the 1988 Democratic National Convention and several 
California State Democratic Conventions.
  Steven was a dedicated worker for democratic principles and values. 
He was a teacher in San Diego City schools--as well as a teacher by his 
life and by example. We who knew him know more now about living to the 
absolute fullest and remaining faithful to our principles.
  As he was released from the hospital on the eve of the recent 
election, Steven spoke of getting home in time to participate in the 
effort to get out the vote. His unwillingness to be stopped was typical 
of his energetic commitment. His medical complications would 
occasionally slow him, but could not stop him for 7 years--until now.
  Of all the praise and awards Steven earned, perhaps the most 
significant was the respect and admiration of his friends, family and 
community for his unwavering commitment to hard work, community 
involvement and a sincere belief that one person can make a difference.
  In this lifetime, we all come across a small number of special 
people--those who touch our minds, hearts and souls with their 
activism, optimism and dedication to making everyone's life richer. 
Steven was one of those chosen few. My thoughts and prayers go out to 
his family, friends and San Diego's gay and lesbian community. This 
world needs more people like R. Steven Pope--he will be sorely missed.

                          ____________________