[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 73 (Wednesday, May 13, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1134]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO ANDREA F. BROOKS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 13, 2009

  Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life 
of Andrea E. Brooks of Indianapolis, Indiana. She passed away on April 
25, 2009 at the age of 65. Andrea was a great leader and an inspiration 
to us all.
  As a government servant, Andrea dedicated her career to working with 
the Department of Veterans Affairs and as a labor activist to the 
American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE). Her perseverance 
stemmed from the belief that unions play a necessary role in the fight 
for fairness and equal justice in the workplace.
  Over the course of 30 years, Andrea had led a brilliant career. She 
served as the National Vice President of Women's and Fair Practices 
Department at the AFGE. Before that Andrea was Chief Steward, then Vice 
President, Secretary-Treasurer, Executive Vice President and then 
President for ten years of the AFGE Local 490 at the Veterans Affairs 
Regional Office in Los Angeles, California.
  Andrea left behind a legacy of being a visionary activist. Her hope 
for the union was for it to be a leader for civil rights activism, 
protecting the rights and freedom of women, minorities and the 
disabled. Andrea's many accomplishments will continue to motivate 
everyone who was touched by her work. I extend my deepest condolences 
to her friends and family as they mourn her passing. My thoughts and 
prayers are with them all during this difficult time.
  Madam Speaker and esteemed colleagues, I urge you to join me in 
paying tribute to Andrea E. Brooks for her distinguished service to our 
Nation's workforce.

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