Condolences pour in as Congresswoman Sheila Jackson dies

WASHINGTON: Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat and outspoken advocate for racial justice and minority rights, has died at the age of 74, her family announced on Friday.

Lee, a black representative from Texas who served in Congress for nearly three decades, revealed last month that she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. “Today, with incredible grief for our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of Representative Sheila Jackson Lee,” her family said in a statement posted on social platform X. They described her as “a fierce champion of the people” and a humanitarian.

The Congressional Black Caucus paid tribute to Lee, calling her a “titan and stalwart member of Congress” and “a fierce advocate for social and economic justice, national and homeland security, energy independence, and children and working families”.

Former president Bill Clinton, in a statement, called her “a fearless fighter for the people” and “one of our country’s most effective leaders.” He added, “Throughout her nearly 30 years in Congress, she was an unwavering champion for women and children, a staunch advocate for sensible gun reform and a relentless defender of the Constitution and the cause of justice.”

During her tenure, Lee served on the Judiciary Subcommittee for Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security, and the House Committees on the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Budget. She also led key legislative initiatives, including the Violence Against Women Act and the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act. Last year, she appeared at an anti-Asian hate protest in Houston, taking several Asian children on stage to declare, “Stop the Asian hate, stand for the American flag.”

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed grief over Lee’s death, offering heartfelt condolences to her family and friends. He praised her as a remarkable leader who always advocated for human rights, particularly focusing on women and children. Zardari highlighted her contributions to strengthening Pakistan-US relations, especially during the devastating floods of 2022 in Pakistan.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed deep grief and sorrow over Lee’s death. “As co-chair of the Pakistan Caucus in the US House of Representatives, she was a champion for stronger ties between Pakistan and the United States,” he wrote on his X timeline. “Her contributions will be remembered and missed for years to come. May her soul rest in peace. My heartfelt condolences to her family and her supporters.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also expressed sorrow over Lee’s death. “Deeply saddened by the loss of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a distinguished lawmaker and a steadfast friend of Pakistan,” Dar wrote on his official X handle. He highlighted her role as chairperson of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, emphasizing her unwavering dedication to strengthening the Pakistan-US relations. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and loved ones during this difficult time,” he added.