[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 37 (Wednesday, March 7, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E330-E331]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE OF CONGRESSMAN DONALD PAYNE

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. DORIS O. MATSUI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 6, 2012

  Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember Congressman 
Donald Payne.
  Today, we lost a dear colleague and friend in the House of 
Representatives, and the American people lost a dedicated leader. I am 
honored to have served with Congressman Payne, and am deeply saddened 
by his passing.
  Donald spent his life fighting for those less fortunate, and was a 
committed advocate for education, civil rights, and social justice--
both at home and abroad. He was a humanitarian in the truest sense of 
the word, and his passion was both inspiring and contagious. As the 
first, and only, African-American from New Jersey elected to Congress, 
Donald was a

[[Page E331]]

trailblazer. His achievements are a testament to the hard work, 
patience, and determination that became the hallmark of Donald Payne's 
career in public service.
  As a senior member of the Education and Workforce Committee, Donald 
was a steady and effective representative for working men and women 
across America. His efforts on their behalf led to tangible gains in 
the areas of worker health and safety. Donald also lent his voice in 
support of early education, working tirelessly to ensure that every 
American child receives a first-class education, regardless of 
financial circumstance.
  As a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Donald won the 
admiration and respect of his colleagues for his extensive and 
unrivaled knowledge of international affairs, especially concerning 
Africa. His humanitarian efforts to secure international aid for 
populations ravaged by war and disease are a tribute to his compassion 
and unwavering resolve to improve the lives of the downtrodden. Madam 
Speaker, Donald's legacy and long list of accomplishments will continue 
to provide a lasting example for my colleagues and I going forward. My 
sincere condolences go out to Donald's family, friends, staff, and 
constituents. He will be missed in this House.

                          ____________________