[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 190 (Thursday, November 30, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2270-E2271]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  A TRIBUTE TO BROTHER BOOKER T. ASHE

                                 ______


                         HON. THOMAS M. BARRETT

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 30, 1995

  Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I pay tribute today to the 
outstanding accomplishments of one of Milwaukee's most beloved 
citizens. As Brother Booker T. Ashe steps down from his duties at the 
House of Peace in Milwaukee, I would like to take a moment to reflect 
on his remarkable contributions to our city and our country.
  Brother Booker as he is fondly known has dedicated his entire life to 
the cause of helping others. For 28 years, Brother Booker has been an 
unfailing presence in our community. In 1967, he founded Milwaukee's 
House of Peace, one of the Nation's most successful nonprofit 
institutions created from a central city storefront with one mission: 
to provide help for those in need. Brother Booker has always been 
there. Whether he is providing food to 

[[Page E2271]]
strangers in the middle of the night, counseling youth about the vital 
importance of education, or helping adults to read and write, Brother 
Booker's every act has been selfless and charitable.
  Brother Booker has long been a voice of conscience in Milwaukee. When 
he speaks, people literally hang on to his words and stop in their 
tracks. Aside from his personal contributions to the community, Brother 
Booker has been instrumental in convincing others to provide financial 
backing for scores of community development projects which have 
strengthened our neighborhoods. The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel put it 
best when it recently wrote, ``Ashe is a man with an extraordinary 
social conscience . . . this champion of the poor has as much 
compassion as Job had patience.''
  Milwaukee has been truly blessed by his presence in our community. We 
know that no one can fill Brother Booker's shoes. Fortunately, he has 
inspired a countless number of people in our community to continue his 
good works and uphold his principles. Indeed, Brother Booker will 
remain a spiritual force in Milwaukee well into the next century. 
Despite his retirement, his work will be carried on by the thousands 
whose lives he has touched.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to 
Brother Booker T. Ashe. I join with the city of Milwaukee in praising 
this outstanding individual and friend to all, and wish him health and 
happiness in his retirement.

                          ____________________