Official records from the U.S. House of Representatives

Houston Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Dies at 74 After 30 Years in Office

Jul 20, 2024, 03:22 AM

U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee has passed away at the age of 74 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing Texas's 18th Congressional District, served in the House of Representatives for nearly 30 years. She was known for her fierce advocacy for civil rights, reparations, and her work on the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act. Jackson Lee was a senior member of the Homeland Security Committee and played a pivotal role in making Juneteenth a federal holiday. She was a champion for Houston and the Black community, notably leading efforts on H.R. 40, a reparations bill. Her passing has elicited an outpouring of condolences from colleagues and constituents, highlighting her dedication to public service and her impact on the community.