[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 108 (Tuesday, June 24, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S3514]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   REMEMBERING DEACON MARTIN PROSPER

 Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life 
and legacy of the late Deacon Martin Prosper. Deacon Prosper was a kind 
and active member of the Prince George's County and Greater Washington 
community. His life embodied faith, perseverance, and community 
service.
  Deacon Prosper immigrated to the United States from Haiti in 1979 and 
settled in Capitol Heights, MD, where he quickly established a warm and 
inviting presence in the community. Affectionally known as ``25,'' his 
deep connection to the Haitian and African-American communities allowed 
him to bridge the gap between generations and positively impact 
countless lives. Above all, Deacon Prosper's life was rooted in his 
faith and ministry. In his role as deacon at Holy Temple Church of 
Christ, he ministered with humility and love and regularly opened his 
home as a safe haven to family and friends.
  Deacon Prosper's humility, professionalism, and compassion served him 
well in his hospitality career at the Holiday Inn Washington Capitol 
and Gaylord National Resort in National Harbor. He was also a proud 
member of UNITE HERE Local 25, where he championed worker dignity and 
solidarity. His exceptional hospitality earned him the Regional Apple 
of the Year Award in 1992.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our appreciation and 
gratitude to the late Deacon Martin Prosper and his family for his 
enduring contributions to the hospitality industry and organized labor 
and his unwavering faith-based service.

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