[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 70 (Tuesday, April 21, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H3029]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
{time} 1610
RECOGNIZING SCOTT BLADES
(Mrs. GRIJALVA asked and was given permission to address the House
for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Mrs. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Scott Blades of
Tucson, Arizona, for more than three decades of leadership and service
to individuals living with HIV in Pima County.
At the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis, when stigma and fear left many
isolated, Scott responded with compassion and resolve, bringing
community members together to provide care, dignity, and connection.
In 1994, he founded the Tucson Interfaith HIV/AIDS Network, building
a powerful model that united faith communities, volunteers, and service
providers to support those in need. Under his leadership, he recruited
thousands of volunteers and, together, TIHAN served more than 1,600
people living with HIV, improving health outcomes, reducing stigma, and
strengthening the community.
Scott Blades' career reflects the very best of public service, a
lasting commitment to dignity, equity, and care for others.
I ask the people of the Seventh Congressional District to join me in
honoring his extraordinary contributions to southern Arizona.
I thank my friend Scott for his service.
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