[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 129 (Friday, October 4, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1762]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 EXPRESSING SORROW OF THE HOUSE AT THE DEATH OF THE HONORABLE PATSY T. 
           MINK, MEMBER OF CONGRESS FROM THE STATE OF HAWAII

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                       HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 1, 2002

  Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Patsy Mink, a 
leader, a visionary, a mentor, and a true advocate for so many who had 
no voice. Patsy Mink was a woman I looked up to, learned from, and was 
inspired by. As the first woman of color elected to the U.S. Congress 
in 1964, Patsy knew what it meant to break down barriers. Her passion 
was for those who were otherwise forgotten or pushed to the side.
  Patsy was a strong fighter for women's rights. Her leadership in the 
fight for equality for women and girls in education and sports has made 
an everlasting impact on this country. The passage of Title IX has 
literally changed the lives of millions of young girls and women. It 
opened the doors to countless opportunities for women and girls and 
allowed us to dream bigger than we ever had before. It allowed more 
people to see women as Olympic athletes and competitors. It allowed 
parents to see their daughters as softball players and runners. It 
challenged school administrators and coaches to see the potential in 
female athletes and embrace it.
  Patsy was a relentless fighter for low-income and poor families. She 
had great compassion for those who were struggling against the odds to 
work and provide for their families. She wasn't afraid to make her 
voice heard in standing up for fair treatment of women receiving 
welfare benefits, workers' rights and fair pay, and children who were 
lacking food or a good education. Patsy was a fearless fighter for the 
environment. She helped protect Hawaii's natural beauty in national 
parks and worked at the local level to help communities preserve their 
lands. Patsy was a lifelong fighter for civil rights. She knew what it 
meant to stand up in the face of adversity and she worked hard to break 
down barriers so those coming after her would instead experience 
justice and equality.
  Patsy was tough and passionate. I can see her now shaking her small 
but mighty fist as she eloquently challenged an injustice. Patsy was a 
pioneer and a trailblazer. As we honor the memory of Patsy Mink today, 
we should also think about the future that she would want and work to 
achieve it. Patsy would want us to pass a Labor/HHS bill that truly 
leaves no child behind. She would want us to fully fund the Women's 
Education Equity Act. She wanted to see passage of a welfare bill that 
lifts women and children out of poverty, not just off the welfare 
rolls. Patsy wants us to make sure that all people have a fair chance.
  Today, as I mourn with my colleagues and extend my condolences to her 
family and to the people of Hawaii, I honor the memory Patsy Mink and 
all that she stood for. And I deeply miss her beautiful smile.

                          ____________________