[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 30 (Monday, February 27, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E241-E242]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              REMEMBERING FORMER CONGRESSWOMAN KATIE HALL

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 27, 2012

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness and great respect 
that I take this time to remember one of Northwest Indiana's most 
valued citizens and my predecessor, former Congresswoman Katie Beatrice 
Hall. Throughout her prestigious career, Katie's contributions to the 
people of Northwest Indiana and across the nation are exemplary, and 
she is worthy of the highest praise. Mrs. Hall passed away on Monday, 
February

[[Page E242]]

20, 2012, but her legacy will live on forever in the hearts and minds 
of those she served.
   Congresswoman Hall grew up in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, during the 
pre-civil rights era. Segregation laws were strict in the South during 
that time, and she learned early in life how to succeed despite great 
opposition. In 1960, Katie earned a bachelor's degree from Mississippi 
Valley State University. Later, she moved to Indiana and continued her 
education, earning a master's degree from Indiana University, 
Bloomington, in 1968.
   The Congresswoman's involvement in politics began when she 
campaigned for former Mayor of Gary Richard Hatcher. Her work on the 
campaign further fueled her desire to serve others and inspired her to 
run for elected office. Prior to becoming a Member of Congress, she 
served in the Indiana House of Representatives from 1974 to 1976 and 
was then elected to the Indiana Senate, serving from 1976 to 1982. As a 
member of the Indiana General Assembly, Mrs. Hall was influential in 
establishing the Genesis Center, Hudson-Campbell Fitness Center, and 
the Adam Benjamin Metro Center, in Gary. Katie also served as the Chair 
for the Lake County Democratic Committee from 1978 to 1980 and for the 
Indiana Democratic Convention in 1980. In 1982, following the untimely 
passing of United States Congressman Adam Benjamin, Jr., Katie won the 
special election to complete his term in office and to represent the 
First Congressional District of Indiana in the 98th Congress, becoming 
the first African American from Indiana elected to serve in the United 
States House of Representatives. While in office, Katie served as 
Chairwoman of the Post Office and Civil Services Subcommittee on Census 
and Population. During her time in Congress, Representative Hall made a 
truly historic contribution through her sponsorship of the bill that 
made Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday a national 
holiday. This bill had been stalled in the House for fourteen years, 
and through her passion and persistence, Katie was successful in 
establishing this recognition of Dr. King.
   Mrs. Hall was a trailblazer for the Civil Rights Movement and a 
devoted public servant to her community, state, and nation. In the 
years following her term, Katie continued her life of public service as 
City Clerk for Gary, Indiana, from 1988 to 2003.
   Katie Hall leaves behind a loving family. She is survived by her 
cherished husband, John Henry Hall, as well as her adoring daughters, 
Jacqueline and Junifer, and her beloved granddaughter, Kristina. She 
also leaves behind many other dear friends and family members, as well 
as a saddened community and a grateful nation.
   Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in remembering the Honorable Katie Hall for her 
tremendous contributions to the people of her community, the State of 
Indiana, and the United States of America. Her life of public service 
is to be admired. Her legacy will serve as an inspiration to us all.

                          ____________________