[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 1 (Tuesday, January 4, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E17]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO CONGRESSWOMAN SHIRLEY CHISHOLM

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. KENDRICK B. MEEK

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, January 4, 2005

  Mr. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, Congresswoman Chisholm charted a 
whole new course for black Americans. She was the first black woman 
elected to Congress and paved the way for dozens who came after her, 
including my mother, former U.S. Rep. Carrie P. Meek. Shirley Chisholm 
was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, a pioneer in 
civil and women's rights issues, and was the first black of either 
gender to run for President of the United States.
  Her determination and passion for the issues she believed in was 
always perfectly packaged by her charm and eloquence. The daughter of 
Caribbean immigrants, she never ceased to push for a better country for 
all Americans.
  Congresswoman Chisholm is an inspiration to me and every Member of 
Congress. Her legacy will never be forgotten, and I will always 
consider her path-breaking career as a motivation to serve the people 
of Florida's 17th Congressional District as best I can.

                          ____________________