What Jonathan L. Jackson said, and what was done

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Burdeens Chicago, a family-owned small business deeply rooted in the Pilsen and Heart of Chicago neighborhoods, and to commend its owners, brothers Gerardo and Rolando Alvarez, for their remarkable journey of entrepreneurship, resilience, and community stewardship.”

“Mr. Speaker, there are some people who build companies, and there are others who build confidence. George E. Johnson did both. He understood something this Nation too often refused to see--that Black people did not need permission to be beautiful, brilliant, or prosperous.”

“Mr. Speaker, we gather today with grateful hearts to honor a remarkable woman whose life was not measured merely by the years she lived but by the lives she lifted.”

“Mr. Speaker, my reflections on the Nation's 250th anniversary: Happy birthday, America. Mr. Speaker, 250 years ago, a remarkable experiment was launched upon this continent. It announced to the world that liberty was a universal birthright, that governments derived their authority from the consent of the governed, and that human dignity deserved political expression.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the University of Chicago for winning the 2026 NCAA Division III Men's Tennis National Championship. The top-ranked UChicago Maroons, led by Head Coach Matt Brisotti, defeated Claremont-Mudd-Scripps 4-3 in a thrilling back-and-forth battle at the Champions Tennis Club in Chattanooga, Tennessee.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues for their presence. Mr. Speaker, I ask the question: Which side of history are you standing on? Now, some of you are here because you want to be here.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Chuy Garcia for his remarks. I must say it is a pleasure and the privilege of a lifetime to serve in Congress with a childhood hero and friend of mine, my colleague, Congressman Chuy Garcia.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Takano. I thank him for honoring his family's history and legacy. I am thankful for his service. I thank him for his voice during this critical hour when America's democracy is being challenged.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Ro Khanna for his leadership and lending his voice. He is another first in the House of Representatives whom I am proud to call a Democrat, and I am proud to call a great American who is standing on the right side of history.”

“Mr. Speaker, I am so appreciative of the Congresswoman Dexter's words and her leadership. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to introduce our next speaker whose district was effectively disenfranchised last year during the longest delay in inducting a Member to the House of Representatives.”

“Mr. Speaker, as we discuss the dismantling of voting rights and how many of my colleagues and I will continue to stand up to defend our most sacred right, I am proud to be joined by my colleagues who have stood up for the right side of history.”

“Mr. Speaker, we pause today to honor the life of Spencer Leek, Jr., a son of Chicago, a steward of a sacred family legacy, and a servant of countless families in their moments of deepest sorrow.”

“Andrew Leek established a funeral home so that Black families, denied dignity in life by segregation, could at least be afforded dignity in death. Spencer Leek, Jr., carried that mission forward with devotion, compassion, and grace.”

“States v. Wong Kim Ark, a case born not in marble hallways but on the docks of San Francisco where a young Chinese-American man born on American soil was told that the country of his birth would not claim him.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, in the spirit of Frederick Douglass, whose vision of freedom was never narrow and never timid.”

“Mr. Chair, I rise today not merely to speak about a piece of legislation, but to speak about a moral covenant, one that binds this Nation to those who till its soil; who rise before dawn and labor until dusk; and who ask not for charity but for fairness; not for sympathy, but for justice.”

“Mr. Chair, I thank Ranking Member Craig for the additional time. For too long, there were farmers--Black farmers, Brown farmers, and women farmers--who knocked on the doors of opportunity and were turned away not because of the content of their character but because of the color of their skin.”

“Mr. Chair, the farm bill is not just a legislative document. It is a moral document. It speaks to who we are as a nation. It declares what we value, and it reveals whether we are willing to match our words with our deeds.”

“Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor an American giant and second lieutenant, the Honorable Jackie Robinson. On this Jackie Robinson Day, we remember that when he stepped onto Ebbets Field on April 15, 1947, he broke not only the color barrier, he broke racial segregation in the hierarchy of sports.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month with both reverence and sorrow to honor the life and legacy of Bettye Jean Mason Odom, a trailblazer whose recent passing marks the loss of a visionary leader and beloved pillar of the Chicago community.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable American, Mr. Kamran Khan. Kamran Khan came to this country at the age of 18 with faith, determination, and a belief in the promise of America.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank the Honorable Congresswoman for yielding. In the interest of time for my colleagues, I give a very special thanks for holding this Special Order hour.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today with gratitude, with pride, and with purpose to honor a son of Chicago, Mr. Derrick Martell Rose. From the hard concrete of Englewood to the shining floor of the United Center, his journey has been a testimony that greatness can rise from any ZIP Code when faith meets discipline and talent meets sacrifice.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong defense of the great character of a loving friend, father, husband, and brother, Congressman Chuy Garcia. My friends, there are moments in the Nation's history when a single life stands up and declares without arrogance and without apology that freedom must mean something for everybody or it means nothing at all.”

“Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honor celebrate the life and legacy of one of America's greatest civil servants, Mr. Stanley D. Moore, Sr. This September, Stanley will turn 90 years old and gather to celebrate the occasion with his family and friends in my hometown of Chicago.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 5140, the D.C. Juvenile Sentencing Reform Act. This bill is not a serious attempt to address crime; it is a regressive, discriminatory, and counterproductive piece of legislation that will only worsen the challenges facing our communities.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in staunch opposition to H.R. 4922, the D.C. CRIMES Act. This is not a serious legislative effort to enhance public safety; it is a blatant political maneuver to override the local authority of Washington, D.C., and restrict judges' ability to make individualized sentencing decisions for young adults.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the extraordinary life and profound contributions of Athens Weed, a distinguished veteran, dedicated professional, and tireless community activist. As he marks his birthday on July 24, 1952, we take this moment to honor his remarkable journey and enduring legacy.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the extraordinary life and profound contributions of Sasha Daltonn, a distinguished founder, producer, and tireless advocate for arts and history. As she marks her birthday on June 25, 1950, we take this moment to honor her remarkable journey and enduring legacy.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the impactful life and multifaceted contributions of Deborah J. Porter, a distinguished media professional, passionate stylist, and dedicated community advocate. As she marks her birthday on July 21, 1957, we take this moment to honor her remarkable journey and enduring legacy.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the impactful life and remarkable dedication of Alice Smith Jones, an extraordinary educator and tireless activist whose commitment to fostering hope and empowering young minds has spanned decades.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 40th Anniversary of Reverend Dr. Tellis Jerome Chapman, a truly dynamic individual and devoted Baptist Minister in the Greater Metropolitan Detroit area.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable dedication and 25 years of pastoral service of Pastor Alton Bridges of Park Manor M.B. Church, located at 8328 S.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable life and profound contributions of Malik Todd Murray, a man who embodied the spirit of lifelong learning, athletic excellence, financial acumen, activism, mentorship and generous philanthropy rooted in faith.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary woman, Ms. Louella Avent, as she celebrates her 85th birthday. Though her official birthday was May 13, 1940, we joyously mark this milestone with a celebration on Saturday, June 7, at the Rose Room.”

“Ms. Avent`s professional life includes dedicated service to the City of Chicago and, most recently, as a greeter at Mark Realty. She's also certified by the Chicago Greater Food Depository and proudly identifies as a chef by trade.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Lois Jean Buckman--a pioneering telecommunications executive, beloved community leader, and lifelong advocate for mentorship, education, and empowerment. Born on March 9, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, Ms.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Aramis Brown, Jr., a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Moor's Brewing Company of Chicago, founded in the heart of our vibrant 1st Congressional District. I extend my sincerest congratulations to their team on their recent prestigious win at the Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream Brewer Experienceship competition.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Zaire Tobar, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 74th birthday of Eric L. Thompson, Sr. Born on April 3, 1951 in Chicago, Illinois, Eric has been a lifelong resident of Chicago and a beloved member of our community.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Bernard J. McCullough, better known as ``Bernie Mac'' by his fans. Born on the south side of Chicago on October 5, 1957, Bernie would go on to become a singular comedic talent who spent his entire career in show business, bringing laughter and joy to his audiences.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Robert Shanahan, Sr., affectionately known as Bob, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, union man, and proud son of Illinois' working class.”

“Mr. Speaker, to advance global security and economic prosperity, the United States must seek to stop piracy around the world. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Johntae Duncan, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable individual from my district, Darrell Bullock, a dedicated Assistant Coach for the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Christian Lowe, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Cornell Dunbar, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Dyett faced the threat of closure, but through powerful community advocacy and unwavering commitment, its doors remained open. Today, the Eagles' triumph, in which Cornell Dunbar played a crucial role, symbolizes the incredible potential that flourishes when a community invests in its youth and its institutions.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Devon Shelton, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Jacob Johnson, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Jahmir Brown, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Jayden McKinnon, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Matthew Wilson, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the impactful life and enduring contributions of Paulette Lawson, a dedicated healthcare professional and community activist whose tireless efforts continue to significantly uplift countless lives.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Ahmari Taylor, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable individual from my district, Ron Thomas, a dedicated Assistant Coach for the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable individual from my district, Nathan Townsen, a dedicated Assistant Coach for the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable individual from my district, Jamal Gill, II, a dedicated Assistant Coach for the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable individual from my district, Divonte Lumpkin, a dedicated Assistant Coach for the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Dillion Fountain, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable individual from my district, Kimani Harris, a dedicated Assistant Coach for the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Amari Brown, a vital member of the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable individual from my district, Chris Williams, a dedicated Assistant Coach for the Walter H.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and community impact of Ms. Toni Taylor and Ms. Malkah Taylor, the visionary owners of The Wrap Bar, a beloved culinary gem on the Southside of Chicago, home to the now-famous jerk wraps.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a remarkable establishment on Chicago's iconic lakefront, Pier 31 Chicago, and its visionary founder, Ms. Nikki Hayes. Approximately 12 years ago, Ms.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Luxury Yacht Party, Inc. for its outstanding contributions and dedicated service to the Chicagoland area. Established in 2016 at its prominent location at 3101 S.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the remarkable dedication and profound impact of Mr. Anthony Powell, a stalwart leader and invaluable pillar of the Southside Chicago community.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate a remarkable entrepreneur and her inspired business, Vintage 1945 Premium Cigars, founded and led by the truly exceptional Irene ``The Dream'' Loyde.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and celebrate the remarkable entrepreneurial spirit and culinary success of Ms. Yasmine Curtis, the visionary owner of Two Fish, a thriving and beloved food business on the Southside of Chicago.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a cherished and enduring small business in our community: Boss Shoe Shine and Repair, located at 349 East 75th Street in Chicago.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate two dynamic and impactful creative forces based in our district, operating from 1727 S. Indiana, Chicago: 8tiv Multimedia Labs and its partner company, 247HH.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today with immense pride to recognize a truly valued small business and an indispensable pillar of our community: Urban Legends Hair Studio, founded in 2006 by the esteemed Mr.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Johnnie Mae Streater, a woman who graced this world for 81 years. While her passing marks the end of an era, her legacy of selfless service to others and her unwavering faith will continue to live on through the family she leaves behind, her beloved daughter, Tamond, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 74th birthday of Eric L. Thompson, Sr. Born on April 3, 1951 in Chicago, Illinois. Eric has been a lifelong resident of Chicago and a beloved member of our community.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Bernard J. McCullough, better known as ``Bernie Mac'' by his fans. Born on the south side of Chicago on October 5,1957, Bernie would go on to become a singular comedic talent who spent his entire career in show business, bringing laughter and joy to his audiences.”

“Madam Speaker, my apologies for not voting in person today. My flight was delayed. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 115, H.R. 530, and YEA on Roll Call No. 116, H.R. 36. personal explanation Mr.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the upcoming 100th anniversary of a beloved institution, the Harlem Globetrotters. Their centennial will be in 2026 and will mark 100 years of entertaining and inspiring audiences around the world.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Elon Louise Williams, a woman whose dedication to her family and community left an enduring legacy. Mrs.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the remarkable 60th Anniversary of the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization (KOCO), a cornerstone of community empowerment and a beacon of hope in the 1st Congressional District of Illinois and the City of Chicago.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Mildred ``Mama K'' Austen Kenerson, a woman who graced this world for an incredible 105 years. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy of resilience and compassion continues to inspire future generations.”

“Cleo Fields from the Sixth District of the great State of Louisiana for yielding. I would like to read for you, Mr. Speaker, a speech that the Honorable George W.”

“When we attack diversity, equity, and inclusion, we erode the gains made through blood, sweat, and tears from the marches in Selma to the legislative victories in the sixties, seventies, eighties, nineties, and beyond.”

“Mr. Speaker, I find it interesting when we started this conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion, I invited some of my other colleagues to participate. One person asked me: Is it legal for you to discuss DEI, diversity, equity, and inclusion?”

“Mr. Speaker, if I could jump in on that for just a moment. These are voluntary programs. These are aspirational programs, as you have shared with me. There is no DEI law.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Fields for the privilege of standing here beside him. I thank him for his commitment to justice, for his commitment to the American way, and I thank him for making America better.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank the Congresswoman for her leadership and her stewardship. I thank the body for convening during this very special hour. Democracy is on trial this week.”

“Mr. Speaker, today we say good-bye to a giant, a leader, a warrior for justice. Today, we mourn the passing of my dear friend and brother in service, Congressman Sylvester Turner.”

“Mr. Speaker: ``Cowardice asks the question, `Is it safe?' Expediency asks the question, `Is it politic?' Vanity asks the question, `Is it popular?' But conscience asks the question, `Is it right?' And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but one must take it because one's conscience tells one that it is right.'' Mr.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th birthday of Mrs. Vergia Jones. Mother Vergia Jones was born on January 6, 1925, as the eldest of eight children.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of dedicated U.S. Capitol Police Officer, Sean Patrick Flynn. Officer Flynn retired from the force this past December after 22 years of service with the Capitol Police.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Clarence Hendricks, a great friend and leader in the City of Chicago, for his 60 years in public service and to congratulate him on his retirement.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and legacy of Chicago legend, Reverend Henry Williamson, Sr., who sadly passed away this past Christmas day at the age of 76.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of dedicated U.S. Capitol Police Officer, Elliot E. Douglas, Jr. Officer Douglas retired this past December after 22 years of service with the Capitol Police.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of dedicated U.S. Capitol Police Officer, Willie Earl Goins. Officer Goins retired from the force this past December after 23 years of service as a member of the U.S.”

“Mr. Speaker, Dr. Ron Daniels is the President of the Institute of the Black World 21st Century and Founder of the Haiti Support Project. Dr. Daniels is a longtime advocate for the African diaspora in the U.S. and a leading figure in the field of Africana studies.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today because in light of the President's January 6 pardons, someone has to stand up for the people who defend this building, who defend the Representatives of the United States of America, and who defend this magnificent institution.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a Chicago Police Department hero, Officer Dorelle C. Brandon. Officer Brandon was tragically killed in the line of duty 40 years ago, marking the first time in our city's history that a female officer laid down her life in the line of duty.”

“Mr. Speaker, during Roll Call Vote No. 11, the Motion to Recommit for H.R. 28, I mistaken recorded my vote as NAY when I should have voted YEA.”