[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 109 (Tuesday, June 30, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E640]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING ALBERT HARRIS AS DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR
LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONTH
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HON. DARREN SOTO
of florida
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Albert Harris as a
Distinguished Leader in Central Florida for LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Albert
Harris has given nearly a decade of his life to the Orange County
government as a photographer, but his work has always been about so
much more than pictures.
He began capturing weddings the very moment the Supreme Court
legalized marriage equality, celebrating love when it mattered most. To
date, Albert has photographed over 300 weddings and 1,600 marriage
proposals. Each one, a story of joy and commitment.
Two years later, he joined Orange County Health Services, where his
lens turned to animals in need. Thanks to his photos and videos,
countless homeless pets found families who would love them forever.
When Hurricanes Ian and Irma tore through Florida, and when COVID-19
brought the world to its knees, Albelt stood alongside Orange County
Fire Rescue and health workers. His images and videos didn't just
document crisis, they comforted a frightened Nation, earning attention
from coast to coast.
Alfred is also a 14-year Army veteran with deployments to Guantanamo
Bay and Afghanistan. He has worn the uniform of public service since
the age of 17.
At home, he is a devoted husband to his partner of 10 years and a
proud father to three cats. Albelt Harris still shows up every single
day, making Orange County and the world a kinder, braver, better place.
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