[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 155 (Friday, November 7, 1997)]
[House]
[Pages H10321-H10322]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               SPECIAL ORDER IN MEMORY OF JOHN STURDIVANT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from Illinois [Mr. Poshard] is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. POSHARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my sorrow over the 
passing of John Sturdivant. His death is a great loss not only

[[Page H10322]]

to the American Federation of Government Employees, but to civil 
servants across the country. John Sturdivant demonstrated dedication 
and courage throughout his entire life, as he battled against 
Government downsizing, excessive privatization, restrictions on 
political activity by Government employees and, ultimately, leukemia. 
Through all of these challenges, he remained a devoted champion of 
workers everywhere, and his efforts will be long remembered and sorely 
missed.
  John Sturdivant leaves behind him a legacy of victories and 
improvements that will continue to benefit the employees he represented 
even though he can no longer speak for them. During a period of 
relentless attacks on Federal workers, through Government downsizing 
and budget pressures, John fought to preserve jobs and spoke out for 
the interests of working families everywhere. He struggled against two 
wasteful Government shutdowns, and tirelessly advocated for improved 
conditions, pay raises and better retirement benefits for those he 
represented. John Sturdivant was instrumental in bringing about Hatch 
Act reforms which enable Federal employees to contribute money, attend 
fundraisers and volunteer for campaign work. In short, he was a great 
friend for workers and a great voice for change, and his passing leaves 
us missing a powerful and passionate ally.

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