[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 18 (Thursday, February 2, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E129]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE OF THE HONORABLE LIZETTE PARKER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOSH GOTTHEIMER

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 2, 2017

  Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
legacy of the Honorable Lizette Parker--a fearless community leader and 
a devoted public servant. She is greatly missed by the people of 
Teaneck, New Jersey, who benefitted immeasurably from her involvement 
in the community and dedication as their mayor and people across Bergen 
County and the state whose lives she improved.
   Mayor Parker was committed to a life of service to those around her. 
She began her career as a social worker, and she eventually earned 
seats on the Bergen County Board of Social Services and the Teaneck 
Town Council. In these roles, she established herself as a force for 
economic and social justice, tackling issues pertinent to families and 
youth such as poverty, housing, health care, and respect and 
appreciation for diversity. In July of 2014, she became the first 
African-American to serve as Mayor of Teaneck--a watershed 
accomplishment for the community. As a tenacious advocate for the 
people of Bergen County, Mayor Parker earned recognition from the Girl 
Scouts of America, the NAACP, and the Urban League, among other 
impressive honors.
   Mayor Parker's passion and leadership inspired residents young and 
old, and her life left a lasting impact on the Teaneck community. I am 
grateful that the scholarship program she established will be continued 
in her name by her family--a fitting testament to her admirable efforts 
to improve the lives of young people in Bergen County.
   Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for Mayor Parker's contributions to our 
community, and I am optimistic that her spirit will continue to live on 
in the hearts of those who she served.

                          ____________________