[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 39 (Wednesday, March 1, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H992]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LEGACY OF JACKIE JOYNER-KERSEE

  (Ms. BUDZINSKI asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. BUDZINSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today, at the close of Black 
History Month and the beginning of Women's History Month, to recognize 
an incredible athlete and role model from Illinois' 13th Congressional 
District, Jackie Joyner-Kersee. I also wish her a happy birthday today.
  Born and raised in East St. Louis, Jackie Joyner-Kersee is one of the 
best track athletes of all time, winning six Olympic medals and four 
World Championship track titles.
  Over the course of her 12-year Olympic career, Jackie broke countless 
records, including the world record in the heptathlon that still stands 
today. She was also the first African-American woman to win gold medals 
in long jump and the heptathlon.
  Jackie's legacy extends far beyond her athletic achievements. Just 
last week, I visited the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation, which 
provides educational and athletic opportunities for young people in 
East St. Louis. I was truly inspired by what I saw in Jackie's 
commitment and work. Throughout her life, she has used her platform to 
be a tireless advocate for children's education, racial equity, and 
women's rights.
  As we celebrate Black history and women's history, let's recognize 
incredible folks like Jackie Joyner-Kersee.

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