[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 35 (Friday, February 25, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E176-E177]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING BARBARA ROBERTS MASON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELISSA SLOTKIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 25, 2022

  Ms. SLOTKIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Barbara Roberts 
Mason of Lansing as an internationally recognized voice for education, 
equality, and justice.
  This exceptional public servant made Michigan history by becoming the 
first African American woman to be elected to statewide office. Serving 
24 years on Michigan's State Board of Education, Barbara worked 
tirelessly as a child advocate to push for equal educational 
opportunities and high academic standards for all.
  In 1986, she founded the Black Child and Family Institute in Lansing, 
which she considers one of her proudest accomplishments. She met with 
President Jimmy Carter on Strategic Arms Limitation Talks, and was a 
trailblazer for the Equal Rights Amendment campaign alongside legends 
like Gloria Steinem, Dorothy Height, and Mildred Jeffrey.
  Barbara's advocacy and dedication to the service of others has taken 
her all over the globe. She has lectured abroad and led humanitarian, 
business, and education exchanges to Japan, Germany, Korea, Ghana, 
Cameroon, and South Africa. During her time as the President of 
Lansing's Regional Sister City Commission, she established an HIV-AIDS 
project in Ghana, as well as the construction and renovation of health 
clinics, schools, libraries, and worked towards clean water, 
sanitation, and hygiene.
  Clearly, Barbara's humanitarian heart knows no bounds. For her 
outstanding merit and life accomplishments in service of her community, 
and the international community, Barbara received the honor of being 
inducted into the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame in 2014. When asked to 
give remarks, Barbara stated that she ``strongly believes that if 
everyone would reach out and give help to someone in need, we'd all be 
better off.'' I agree, and I am so thankful for her commendable actions 
that made Michigan a better place.
  For her tireless service to all those in need, it is my privilege to 
add her story so that many more will answer her call to service.

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