[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 177 (Wednesday, November 16, 2022)]
[House]
[Page H8525]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING REVEREND DR. CALVIN O. BUTTS III

  (Mr. ESPAILLAT asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mr. ESPAILLAT. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to honor the life and 
legacy of the legendary Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Butts III. As the pastor 
of the Abyssinian Baptist Church for 50 years, Reverend Butts 
understood his role as a leader went beyond the faith community.
  Witnessing the racial strife of the late 1960s, Reverend Butts became 
an ardent protector of Harlem, particularly the Black community, and 
often pushed for projects and policies that would increase access to 
dire needs like housing and education.
  Reverend Butts led projects that included raising and investing $1 
billion in housing and commercial development in Harlem through the 
Abyssinian Development Corporation and creating the Thurgood Marshall 
Academy for Learning and Social Change.
  Reverend Butts preached a message of faith and education, and he 
motivated each of us through his teachings to be an active and 
exemplary member of Harlem, uplifting communities while giving back 
through service, engagement, and social reform.
  A dear friend and icon of Harlem, may he rest in peace, and may his 
legacy be cherished and never forgotten. Keep the faith.

                          ____________________