[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 65 (Thursday, April 15, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E402]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRATION OF THE LIFE OF JOHN YOUNG

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JARED HUFFMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 15, 2021

  Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the life 
of John Young, a remarkable community leader and activist who spent 
more than 30 years uplifting underserved communities in the North Bay 
Area.
  John was born on October 25, 1952 in San Francisco, CA. He grew up in 
Marin City and attended Tamalpais High School and College of Marin. 
John went on to study public policy at San Francisco State University, 
where he developed a passion for social justice.
  Recognizing the need to confront economic, health, and education 
inequities, John committed his career to championing more inclusive 
social policies. At the Marin City Community Development Corporation, 
John went to bat for the community that raised him, helping to plan and 
launch critical revitalization projects. The Canal Neighborhood in San 
Rafael benefitted from John's talents as an organizer and housing 
specialist for the Canal Community Alliance. John also successfully 
managed more than $5 million in grants for programs supporting low 
economic and disadvantaged populations across the Bay Area.
  John was a skilled problem solver who was able to effect change by 
bringing people together. In founding the Marin County Grassroots 
Leadership Network, he assembled a coalition for underrepresented 
residents to unite and speak with one voice. This helped secure more 
equitable policy outcomes, including housing, transportation, labor, 
and voting rights. In addition, more than 300 rising leaders were 
mentored and trained through the organization.
  Friends, family, and colleagues knew John for his big personality 
that could brighten any room. With a deep sense of compassion and a 
people-first attitude, John embodied all the qualities of a fierce 
community organizer. Although he will be sorely missed, John's legacy 
will live on through the lasting positive impact he had on our 
community and beyond.
  John's hard work made a transformative difference in the lives of 
many. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in extending 
condolence to John's family and friends and in expressing our deep 
appreciation for John's extraordinary career and life.

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