[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 13]
[House]
[Page 17750]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING REPRESENTATIVE EMANUEL CLEAVER

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from New 
Jersey (Mr. Payne) for 2\1/2\ minutes.
  Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor my good friend and 
mentor, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, Representative 
Emanuel Cleaver, the outgoing chairman of the CBC.
  An accomplished and esteemed legislator, Congressman Cleaver was 
instrumental in orchestrating the CBC For the People Jobs Initiative, 
which brought together private and public sector entities across the 
Nation to help the unemployed Americans get jobs.
  He also spearheaded voter protection events to bring attention to the 
State voter suppression policies designed to discourage and prevent 
African Americans from exercising their right to vote.
  Personally, it was my pleasure to get to know Congressman Cleaver 
through his relationship with my father, the late Congressman Donald 
Payne, Sr. However, I became more acquainted with Mr. Cleaver when I 
was a candidate for the 10th Congressional District of New Jersey.
  Throughout the many encounters with Congressman Cleaver, he has 
always shown tremendous leadership, intellect, kindness, and poise. 
These characteristics were on full display during the passing of my 
father. My family and I were honored to have Mr. Cleaver deliver a very 
emotional and uplifting speech that was felt throughout the church 
during my father's home-going service in March. His advice and words of 
comfort during those very challenging times were tremendous help, and I 
will always be grateful for his unwavering support.
  During my transition to Capitol Hill, he offered a great deal of 
support, oftentimes stopping me in the hallways to ask me how am I 
doing and how can he help. His assistance has eased my transition 
considerably, and I am grateful for the profound impact that 
Congressman Cleaver has had on me.
  In just a few months, I've come to know why my father considered him 
a great colleague and an outstanding leader. Today I cannot think of a 
better friend and mentor.
  Thank you.

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