Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Passes Away at Age 74
Source: General / Radio One
It is with our deepest condolences that we share this heartbreaking news: Sheila Jackson Lee, Congresswoman, proud Texan and longtime friend of our Radio ONE Houston family has passed away. She was 74 years old.
“With incredible grief for our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas,” her family said in a statement.
For more than three decades, Lee served the people of Houston and was one of its most prominent political figures.
“A local, national, and international humanitarian, she was acknowledged worldwide for her courageous fights for racial justice, criminal justice, and human rights, with a special emphasis on women and children,” the family statement continued.
Born January 2, 1950 in Queens, New York, Lee served the citizens of Houston as part of the city council from 1989 to 1994. One year later, she was elected to the United States House of Representatives
Among her many political accolades, including establishing the Juneteenth Federal Holiday and reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act.
Source: Marcus Ingram / Getty
Last month, she shared the news that she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The announcement came shortly after Lee had won a primary election to regain her seat, represents Texas’ 18th District, which encompasses areas of Houston. She emerged victorious with 60% of the vote.
We would like to wish her friends, family and close inner circle love and healing energy as we at Radio ONE reflect on our many wonderful experiences with Sheila Jackson Lee throughout the years.
