[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 38 (Thursday, March 8, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E346]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE OF CONGRESSMAN DONALD PAYNE

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. JOHN B. LARSON

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 6, 2012

  Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Madam Speaker. Donald Payne was a man of 
few words, but his actions spoke loudly and boldly for those who could 
not speak for themselves. He dedicated his life to helping the less 
fortunate, and to expanding and protecting human rights for all, both 
in the United States and abroad.
  He served 12 distinguished terms in the U.S. House of 
Representatives, and was the first African American congressman from 
New Jersey. He served as chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, as 
well as chairman of the Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health and Human 
Rights. His work on behalf of Darfur; his involvement in the fight 
against HIV and AIDS; and his extensive travels to places like Rwanda, 
Somalia and Haiti demonstrated the depth of his passion for social 
justice, and served as an example for all who seek to make the world a 
better place.
  On a personal level, I will never forget him traveling to Connecticut 
for the launching of the Freedom Amistad Schooner in 2000. Donald was 
also instrumental in commemorating the 200th anniversary of the 
abolition of the transatlantic slave trade, and ensured the success of 
the Amistad's anniversary trip. He himself traveled to Sierra Leone and 
back to honor the 53 slaves that were held aboard that fateful ship. He 
followed the Amistad's journey very closely, and it was through his 
tireless efforts that the Congressional Black Caucus succeeded in 
bringing the Amistad to DC.
  Last year I was also fortunate to host Donald and a delegation from 
the Congressional Black Caucus in Hartford to celebrate the 200th 
anniversary of author Harriet Beecher Stowe--the woman who wrote the 
book that started a great war. Given Donald's commitment to social 
justice, and his respect for history, I knew it would be a meaningful 
and symbolic occasion. His attendance meant so much to me, and I was 
grateful for the chance to show him my district.
  It was an honor to serve with Representative Payne, and he will be 
greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

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