[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E533]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MS. SYLVIA COLLINS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARC A. VEASEY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, June 4, 2026

  Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, legacy, and 
extraordinary service of Ms. Sylvia Collins, a dedicated community 
activist, Democratic precinct chair, and tireless advocate for justice 
whose unwavering commitment to serving others left a profound and 
lasting impact on Dallas, Oak Cliff, and communities throughout North 
Texas.
  Ms. Collins devoted decades of her life to uplifting her neighbors 
and strengthening civic engagement throughout Dallas County. As a 
longtime Democratic precinct chair and community organizer, she worked 
hard to ensure that all voices were heard and represented. Her 
dedication to public service extended far beyond politics, as she 
consistently stood alongside those seeking opportunity.
  Throughout her life, Ms. Collins became known in Dallas as a 
passionate advocate who never hesitated to answer the call to serve and 
stood on the frontlines fighting for justice. Whether assisting with 
voter registration efforts, supporting local campaigns, advocating for 
civil rights, standing up for immigrants and underserved communities, 
or volunteering her time at community events, she remained steadfast in 
her belief that meaningful change begins with ordinary people willing 
to take action.
  Friends, colleagues, and elected leaders alike remember Ms. Collins 
as a tireless volunteer and compassionate servant leader whose kindness 
matched her dedication. She possessed a unique ability to bring people 
together, foster civic participation, and remind others of the power of 
community. She was especially admired for her unwavering advocacy, 
which was rooted not in personal recognition, but in a sincere desire 
to improve the lives of others and strengthen the communities she 
loved.
  Ms. Collin's life was tragically cut short in the devastating 
apartment explosion and fire that occurred in Oak Cliff in May 2026. 
While the circumstances surrounding this tragedy remain under 
investigation, the loss of Ms. Collins has left an immeasurable void in 
the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, and the countless 
individuals whose lives she touched through her service and advocacy.
  Today, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the famijy, friends, 
and loved ones of Sylvia Collins. We honor her extraordinary life, her 
steadfast commitment to public service, and the lasting example she 
leaves and will continue to live on in Dallas, Oak Cliff, and in the 
many lives she touched throughout her remarkable lifetime.

                          ____________________