Remembering Sheila Jackson Lee: A Titan of Advocacy

U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, a staunch advocate for African-American and women's rights, has passed away at age 74. Known for her progressive stance, her family announced her death on X. A champion of social justice, she introduced legislation for making 'Juneteenth' a federal holiday.

U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, a strong progressive voice in the Democratic Party known for advocating African-American and women's rights, has died, her family announced on X late Friday.

Jackson Lee, who represented Texas, revealed last month that she had pancreatic cancer and was undergoing treatment. She was 74 years old, according to U.S. media. 'The road ahead will not be easy, but I stand in faith that God will strengthen me,' she said upon announcing her diagnosis.

'A fierce champion of the people, she was affectionately and simply known as 'Congresswoman' by her constituents in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service to their daily lives for more than 30 years,' her family said in the statement. Throughout her career, Jackson Lee tirelessly promoted legislation aimed at addressing social justice, economic inequality, and public health concerns.

One of her notable achievements was the introduction of legislation in the House of Representatives to make 'Juneteenth' a federal holiday, commemorating the end of the legal enslavement of Black Americans. The holiday marks June 19, 1865, when a Union general informed enslaved people in Texas that they had been made free two years earlier by President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a conservative Republican, posted on X that his wife 'Cecilia and I will forever remember Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. She was a proud Texan and a tireless advocate for the people of Houston. Her legacy of public service and dedication to Texas will live on,' Abbott said.

Jackson Lee served on several House committees, including judiciary, homeland security, and budget.

(With inputs from agencies.)