[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 149 (Tuesday, September 24, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E958-E959]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   CELEBRATING DR. WILLA GRANT BATTLE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ILHAN OMAR

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 24, 2024

  Ms. OMAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate, recognize, and 
honor Dr. Willa Grant Battle. Dr. Battle has been a trailblazer in the 
field of theology, education, and a devout community leader. Her 
accomplishments have impacted communities beyond measure and will have 
lasting effects here in the United States and beyond.
  Dr. Battle relocated to Minnesota in 1946 where she committed herself 
to education. After graduating from Northwestern College with a degree 
in Theology, she went on to the University of Minnesota and majored in 
American Studies and minored in Afro-American History and Music 
history. She proceeded to earn her Master's in American Studies and 
later a Doctorate in Philosophy from the Trinity Seminar.
  Dr. Willa Battle was married to Walter Battle for 54 years. She and 
her husband founded House of Refuge, now Grace Temple Deliverance 
Center in South Minneapolis and Gospel

[[Page E959]]

Temple in Saint Paul. Dr. Battle later founded House of Refugee 
Missions in Haiti, where she has been a missionary for 67 years. 
Through this mission, several schools and churches were built in Haiti, 
as well as the Good Samaritan Hospital.
  Dr. Battle is a true warrior and role model for women here and in 
Haiti. Her efforts have inspired countless individuals to pursue their 
dreams and aspirations no matter their background or circumstance.
  Please join me in celebrating the incredible achievements of Dr. 
Willa Grant Battle and in wishing her a happy 100th birthday.

                          ____________________