[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 21]
[House]
[Page 27979]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




  TRIBUTE TO THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF REV. JESSE JACKSON'S RUN FOR THE 
                               PRESIDENCY

  (Ms. LEE of California asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute.)
  Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and 
honor the contributions of a truly great American who is with us today, 
the Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson.
  Twenty-five years ago, Rev. Jackson embarked on a trailblazing run 
for the Presidency which really did energize our Nation and was an 
inspiration to millions. Many Members of this body are here today as a 
result of the movement Rev. Jackson led.
  Rev. Jackson's run for the White House gave us more than hope. He 
showed us how to build a serious grass- roots movement that cut across 
race and class. We learned how to empower and engage our communities so 
that our voices would be heard and our issues addressed.
  In the 25 years since Rev. Jackson's historic run for the Presidency, 
America has witnessed monumental changes culminating in our Nation 
electing the first African American President. Much remains to be done 
in this great Nation to achieve the American Dream, but Rev. Jackson's 
example of perseverance and coalition-building continues to inspire 
hope and change and provide for the participation of all of those in 
our great democracy.
  Rev. Jackson, you have shown us that if the dream can be conceived, 
it can be achieved. And we honor you today.

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