[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 178 (Thursday, December 20, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2379]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING MS. PATRICIA IRELAND

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 20, 2001

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay 
tribute to Ms. Patricia Ireland. During her many years of service in 
the fight for equal rights, Ms. Ireland has been a tireless crusader 
for the fundamental principles of our democracy. She is a true America 
heroine.
  For ten years, Ms. Ireland served as the president of the National 
Organization for Women. She stood up for the rights of Anita Hill, she 
raised awareness of domestic abuse, and she fought against those who 
would regard women as second class citizens. Through it all, she 
developed a reputation for integrity and effective action.
  During the election controversy of 2000, she was a consistent 
champion of the right of Americans to have his or her vote counted. She 
has helped move NOW squarely into a role as a leading civil rights 
institution. Throughout her lifetime of service, Ms. Ireland has stood 
up to those in power and spoke up for those who would otherwise not 
have had a voice.
  Mr. Speaker, Ms. Ireland stepped down as President of NOW earlier 
this year. The country looks forward to her continued leadership, and 
is indebted to her for her service.

                          ____________________