[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 21 (Friday, February 2, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E127]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MRS. HELEN SHIPP

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. J. LUIS CORREA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, February 2, 2018

  Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take some time today to 
honor one of my constituents, Mrs. Helen Shipp, for her dedicated 
service to the community of Orange County.
  Mrs. Shipp passed away at the age of 82 on January 25, 2018, but her 
life and legacy will continue to vibrantly live on. Mrs. Shipp founded 
and organized Orange County's first Black History Parade and Cultural 
Faire in 1980. Mrs. Shipp dreamed of a gathering where the history, 
accomplishments, and culture of the African-American community would be 
remembered and celebrated. This quickly became Orange County's premier 
event for Black History Month, and Mrs. Shipp's dream was realized. Her 
commitment and diligence in organizing the Black History Parade has 
inspired many members of the community, within and outside Orange 
County.
  Mrs. Shipp thought of the event as a gathering of old friends, where 
a community of neighbors and friends could better understand each 
other. This event also brought together many new friends. Mrs. Shipp's 
passion led to many prominent figures serving as grand marshals in the 
parade, and continually attracted crowds from diverse backgrounds. This 
year, the parade will be entering its 38th anniversary--this longevity 
is a testament to Mrs. Shipp's selfless dedication to the community.
  Mrs. Shipp enjoyed a career of giving, from her parade organizing to 
her service working for the Head Start program, where she provided 
early-education for children from low-income families. Her life shows 
us the capability, within all members of the community, to create 
something that enriches the lives of their fellow Americans. Mrs. 
Shipp's legacy will be continued by her children, her neighbors, her 
friends, and all who are inspired by her life.
  Mr. Speaker and colleagues, I would be honored to recognize and 
remember Mrs. Helen Shipp for her dedication to connecting and uniting 
people in the community. I thank her for her generosity and example. I 
extend my deepest condolences to her children, and the rest of her 
family. May God bless her soul and her family.

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