[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 40 (Thursday, March 21, 1996)]
[House]
[Pages H2662-H2663]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        WOMEN IN PUBLIC SERVICE

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentlewoman from Texas, Ms. Eddie Bernice Johnson, is recognized for 5 
minutes.
  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, in the United 
States the history of women in public service is both significant and 
meaningful. Unfortunately, our history does not always adequately 
recognize these women's contributions.
  Historically, women have received limited space in the history books, 
and few have questioned their absence. However, today we are all faced 
with the challenge to eliminate the negative stereotypes, myths, lies, 
and distortions about women's role in the progress of time.
  In celebration of Women's History Month, I would like to recognize 
DeMetris Sampson as the Woman of the Year from the 30th Congressional 
District of Texas.
  Ms. Sampson's activities are multifaceted. For the past 1\1/2\ years, 
she has chaired the task force on liquor related businesses near 
schools. As chairwoman, she has successfully formulated and lobbied for 
State law changes as well as local ordinance and administrative changes 
to address the proliferation of alcohol establishments located near 
Dallas schools.
  In addition, Ms. Sampson has served for the past 9 years on the 
domestic violence task force for the city of Dallas. She has been 
instrumental in formulating changes in the law for the city's 
legislative package which is designed to protect battered spouses from 
repeat offenders.
  The task force has also worked to focus the attention of the 
municipal, family, and criminal judiciary on domestic violence issues 
and reforms.
  In 1991, Ms. Sampson was appointed to the East Texas State University 
board of regents by Gov. Ann Richards. Currently, she serves as the 
vice chairperson of the board.

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  In recognition of her work in the city of Dallas, Ms. Sampson was 
recently named the recipient of the Dr. Martin Luther King Junior 
Justice Award.
  She is a successful practicing attorney and prominent community 
activist, and it is an honor to recognize DeMetris Sampson as the Woman 
of the Year. Through her tireless work and dedication Ms. Sampson is 
truly one of this Nation's greatest public servants.

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