[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 51 (Friday, March 22, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E283]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING SENATOR JEAN BREAUX

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 22, 2024

  Mr. CARSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of Indiana Senator 
Jean Breaux, who lived a life of selfless and profound service to the 
Indianapolis community.
  For decades, Senator Breaux served our community with her signature 
fierce advocacy and fighting spirit. Prior to holding office, Senator 
Breaux worked for the Indiana Department of Economic Development, where 
she fought for Hoosiers of all backgrounds. In 2006, she was elected to 
the Indiana Senate--following in the footsteps of her mother, Billie 
Breaux--and served as assistant Democratic leader for the Senate 
Democratic Caucus from 2012 to 2020.
  In her role, Senator Breaux fought tirelessly for vulnerable and 
disadvantaged Hoosiers. In particular, she worked to improve Black 
infant and maternal mortality, increased access to healthy food in food 
deserts, protected Hoosiers from rising utility costs, fought for 
reproductive justice, passed policies to address poverty, advocated for 
gun violence prevention to keep our communities safe, and so much more. 
In her role on the Senate Health Committee, she helped combat health 
disparities in the Black community and pushed for comprehensive access 
to care. Equity was always at the center of her service. Senator 
Breaux's initiative to eliminate school textbook fees passed last year, 
which will help Hoosier families for generations to come.
  Senator Breaux's impact on our community is reflected in the 
outpouring of grief and support as the entire Indiana community mourns 
this substantial loss. She was a great friend, mentor, and confidante 
to so many, including myself. On many occasions, I relied on her wisdom 
to guide me, and the lessons she taught us all will continue to endure. 
On behalf of the entire 7th Congressional District, we offer our 
condolences to those grieving this significant loss, especially her 
beloved mother, former Senator Billie Breaux.
  Today, we honor the life and legacy of Senator Jean Breaux, but we 
will continue to honor her every day moving forward by heeding her 
advice: fight for those less fortunate, no matter the obstacles in the 
way, speak up against injustice, and never stop working towards a 
brighter future.

                          ____________________