[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 125 (Wednesday, July 27, 2022)]
[House]
[Page H7239]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING REVEREND MARLENE FAYE WHITERABBIT HELGEMO

  (Ms. DAVIDS of Kansas asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute.)
  Ms. DAVIDS of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and 
honor the life of Reverend Marlene Faye Whiterabbit Helgemo.
  Marlene was a powerful Ho-Chunk woman and strong leader recognized 
nationally for her commitment to her faith and family and her 
mentorship for so many.
  When I was elected as one of the first two Native American women to 
serve in Congress, she was standing right beside me.
  I was proud to call her an inspiration and mentor. I am positive so 
many others would say the same.
  Her impact on our world and our lands goes far beyond her 
recognitions, but I would be remiss if I didn't mention a few of them.
  Marlene was the first Native American woman to be ordained in the 
Lutheran Church. She was cofounder of the National Native American 
Boarding Schools Healing Coalition, which is working to understand and 
address the trauma created by the U.S. Indian boarding school policy.
  Marlene leaves behind a legacy filled with love, compassion, and 
service to our community. Our hearts are with her family: her husband, 
Harvey; two daughters; and her grandchildren.
  I am just one of many Ho-Chunks who will miss her sincerely, miss her 
wisdom, and we say thank you to Marlene.

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