U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, a prominent Democrat from Texas, has died at age 74 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Jackson Lee, who represented Texas’ 18th Congressional District for nearly three decades, was known for her fierce advocacy for women’s rights, minorities, and social justice issues.First elected to Congress in 1994, Jackson Lee played a key role in several significant legislative achievements, including the passage of the Violence Against Women Act and the recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday. She was also a strong advocate for LGBTQ rights, immigration reform, and criminal justice reform.Jackson Lee’s career in public service began as a judge in Houston before she was elected to the Houston City Council in 1989. Throughout her tenure in Congress, she was known for her tireless work ethic and commitment to her constituents. Rep. James Clyburn described her as ‘a tenacious advocate for civil rights and a tireless fighter’.Despite facing some controversies, including criticism for her treatment of staff and high staff turnover rates, Jackson Lee was widely respected across party lines. Even Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott paid tribute to her legacy, calling her ‘a proud Texan and a tireless advocate for the people of Houston’.Jackson Lee is survived by her husband, Elwyn Lee, two children, Jason and Erica Lee, and two grandchildren. Her family expressed gratitude for her life and legacy, stating that she will be dearly missed but will continue to inspire those who believe in freedom, justice, and democracy.
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- Jackson Lee was a fierce advocate for women’s rights, minorities, and social justice issues.
- She played key roles in passing the Violence Against Women Act and recognizing Juneteenth as a national holiday.
- Despite some controversies, she was respected across party lines for her dedication to public service.
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Sheila Jackson Lee died at 74 after battling pancreatic cancer.
