Longtime Houston Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee has died, her family announced Friday evening, leaving behind a legacy of decades in public service, advocacy for womens’ rights and racial equality and a reputation as a tireless advocate for the city.
She was 74.
Many will remember Jackson Lee for her focus on a progressive agenda, including, but not limited to, social justice, racial issues, LGBTQ rights and immigration. Jackson Lee will also be remembered as she was on the scene of every major disaster from Hurricane Ike to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many were amazed with the amount of public appearances she’s been able to attend while crisscrossing the country.
But for us, fans, we will remember the day she met with Michael Jackson and 15 African ambassadors to discuss the HIV/AIDS epidemic and visited wounded veterans from the Iraq War at Walter Reed Army Medical Center on March 31, 2004 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC.
Jackson Lee also spoke at Michael’s funeral where she presented a House resolution that was to honor Michael Jackson.
All our condolences to Sheila Jackson Lee’s family and friends, and thank you for defending Michael. Rest in Peace
