[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 195 (Tuesday, November 28, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1130]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MR. AGONAFER SHIFERAW

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 28, 2023

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
lasting contributions of Mr. Agonafer Shiferaw, a critical leader and 
steward of progress in the Bay Area community. Mr. Shiferaw leaves 
behind an indelible legacy of love, leadership, and service to his 
community and family.
  Born in Ethiopia in 1952, Mr. Shiferaw's passion for knowledge led 
him to California, where he studied economics at San Francisco State 
University. After he earned his bachelor's degree, he remained in San 
Francisco where he opened Rasselas Restaurant and Jazz Club, an 
Ethiopian restaurant located in the Fillmore neighborhood in 1986.
  For nearly 30 years, Rasselas was a gathering place for friends, 
family, and loved ones to come together in celebration. It was a 
cultural hub within the Bay Area, uniting the community and offering 
residents and visitors alike a space where they could join in shared 
appreciation of jazz music.
  In addition to his crucial work as the founder of Rasselas, Mr. 
Shiferaw also demonstrated his sincere love for his community through 
his compassionate leadership and altruistic advocacy. He was committed 
to empowering and uplifting the Black community in the Bay Area and was 
truly passionate about serving others and giving a voice to the 
voiceless. His critical contributions made him a beacon of light within 
his community and undeniably improved the lives of those around him.
  Mr. Shiferaw will be remembered not only for his decades of service 
to the Bay Area, but also for his genuine kindness and compassion. He 
impacted the lives of so many in his community and was known both for 
his leadership and the unfailing love he had for his family. His 
passion for service, valiant advocacy, and perseverance have left a 
legacy on the people of the Bay Area.
  Mr. Shiferaw's enduring spirit will live on in his loving wife, 
daughter, nieces, nephews, and extended family. I would like to extend 
my deepest sympathies to Mr. Shiferaw's loved ones. I know that they, 
along with the people of the Bay Area, join me in celebrating his life 
and legacy.

                          ____________________