[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 131 (Tuesday, July 27, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5096-S5097]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO NORMAN LEAR

 Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to recognize the 99th 
birthday of Norman Lear, a man who came to Hollywood and entertained 
the Nation, then dedicated his life to bettering it as a champion for 
progressive values.
  Born in 1922, Norman Lear served bravely in the Air Force during 
World

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War II, flying 52 combat missions over Europe. After the war, he made 
his way to California and struck out as a television writer. Norman 
Lear's sitcoms were beloved for their humor, empathy, and willingness 
to dive into the lives of diverse characters. His innovative shows 
reached more than 120 million viewers per week in the 1970s and `80s.
  And yet, in the midst of this success, Norman Lear put his career on 
hold because, once again, he felt called to serve his country. 
Distressed by the rise of radical rightwing activists, Norman Lear 
founded People for the American Way in 1980 and became a champion of 
American constitutional values.
  Through his writing, producing, and activism, Norman Lear has 
strengthened our democracy. He has championed free expression, civic 
participation, and equal justice for all. He even bought a copy of the 
Declaration of Independence to send on a 50-State tour, bringing 
Americans closer to our founding ideals and encouraging voter 
registration, a cause that is dear to me.
  Today, at 99, Norman Lear is still fighting for progressive values. 
He also continues to produce some of the funniest and wisest works for 
the screen, highlighting the diverse experiences that make America 
stronger.
  I want to offer Norman Lear my best wishes for the first day of his 
100th year and my thanks for his dedication to bettering the lives of 
so many.

                          ____________________