TEXAS METRO - SPECIAL FALL EDITION

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SPECIAL FALL 2020 EDITION

BORN TO SERVE

Distinguished Legislator turns 85!

The Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson U.S. House of Representatives

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A woman worth celebrating

Sometimes for whatever reason, folks come into our lives and have an impact.

Some folks we are glad to see coming and then others we’re glad to see them leaving.

Then still others come into our lives and before long we forget they ever existed.

Life is strange because you meet some folks and feel as though you have met your soul mate. You have conversations that seem important at the time and you share secrets that you each swear to keep.

Or so you think.

It’s a wonderful thing when you meet someone who brightens your life, warms your spirit and makes you feel good.

MY TRUTH

BY CHERYL SMITH Publisher

Which brings me to my truth.

I think the first time I interviewed the Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson, it was in 1990. She was in her car and it was a phone interview about something related to the office she held at the time, Texas State Senator.

She talked at length and answered all of my questions.

I don’t recall the topic but I do remember that she appeared to bend over backwards to accommodate my interview request.

Over the years we had very little interaction and then one day something amazing happened. We clicked.

The stars aligned.

I already knew she was an elected official, the first nurse to serve in the Texas House and Senate and U.S. Congress. She advocates for veterans and a number of other causes and issues, like science and technology; or others we rarely hear about, like Lupus, foreign affairs, or leading the only veto override during President Bush’s terms.

Sure she’s dealt with controversy, disagreement and conflict.

A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and The Links, Inc., Congresswoman Johnson has strong family ties and feelings of loyalty to those she trusts and respects. She’s very knowledgeable and focused.

Let me tell you. She brings joy into my heart. And I look forward to seeing her, even if just to share a

With AKA International Grand Basileus Dr. Glenda Glover and Congresswoman Johnson. moment or two.

Some of those special moments have been spent at Heroes House where we join businessman Gary Hasty as we feed and visit with veterans who live at the two Dallas locations.

Even when I am out of town, I return back to Dallas for those special days so I can interact with the valiant men and women who served our country.

During the first event, I realized just how deeply Cong. Johnson cares for veterans and is committed to addressing their issues, of which there are many.

I remember learning more about the needs of those incarcerated as told by Joyce Ann Brown; who spent nine years, five months and 24 days in prison for a crime she did not commit. Before meeting Ms. Brown over 30 years ago I thought everyone behind bars actually committed a crime.

With veterans I’ve always held them in his esteem, sometimes feeling sorry for them for having to go to foreign countries fighting for the rights of others when they couldn’t share equal rights upon returning home.

Through Cong. Johnson, Mr. Hasty and my nephew Andre Smith; as well as those at Heroes House, I’ve learned so much about the lives of men and women who serve in the military.

We haven’t done all we can and we need to do a whole lot more for them.

And Cong. Johnson does so much, on so many levels. It’s interesting that folks criticize but don’t do their homework. I’ve watched her with the veterans.

I’ve also seen her in action in D.C. She’s not sitting on her hands and anyone who tells you that is showing how misinformed they are. One day in D.C. with her and I was practically running to the airport! She visits with constituents, attends meetings and receptions, interacts with other leaders and meets with staff.

I slipped away for lunch, and a break. I was tired!

But she kept on going, serving and leading!

And while some say there should be term limits for those serving in elective office, there’s something to be said about seniority, especially on the national level when you consider the tenure of most committee chairs.

The longer you serve, the more you’ll see how seniority is celebrated and respected. It is often said those closest to you are the last to see the greatness in you. I saw firsthand the respect paid to her as she moves from meeting to meeting interacting with the top leaders of this nation.

We should all do a better job of seeing the good in one another while we can show appreciation.

I see the good and the greatness in the Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson and I appreciate her so much.

As we deal with COVID-19 and the constant state of pandemonium we continue to live in; it is important to realize what matters.

Yes Black Lives Matter and the Congresswoman is one Black Life that has benefitted so many others.

And this is MY TRUTH!

A special happy birthday!

Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson

By DeMetris Sampson

Public service is a noble calling.

As a constituent of the 30th U. S. Congressional District, I am a beneficiary of the work and service of the Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson, and a supporter.

I recall when I was volunteering with thenTexas Senator Johnson to create what would become District 30. I was serving as Chair of the Political Congress of African American Women,

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This is a Special Publication of I Messenger Media, LLC. Photos courtesy of Johnson’s Sfaff and family and IMM archives.

and we were determined to assist in creating an African-American congressional district.

With then-Sen. Johnson, we gathered testimony through community comments and offered testimony at the Texas Legislature. Her steadfast efforts to create a strong district from which African-Americans would be elected--and could continue to be elected--were successful.

Today, the residents of District 30 benefit from the seniority attained by Congresswoman Johnson. She serves with distinction on the Transportation Committee, and is the first woman and the first African-American to chair Publisher : Cheryl Smith Editor: editor@texasmetronews.com Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, Tx 75203 Website: www.texasmetronews.com Phone: 214-941-0110

In collaboration with The Dallas Morning News, to better serve our readers!

the Science, Space and Technology committee.

From health care, to education, to transportation infrastructure and much more, DFW has gained from her work and ability to get things done.

If we are judged by our contributions to our communities and our dedication to our families, Congresswoman Johnson has earned the highest honors. As a supporter, it has been my privilege to observe her public service, her service to our sisterhood, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and her friendship and service through The Links, Incorporated.

Yes indeed, 85 years well-lived.

Do you know this man?

HE IS A SERIAL RAPIST He targeted members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. but this is more than about a sorority.

We’re talking about a community.

Come on PEOPLE! Don’t you CARE?

Crimestoppers 877-373-8477

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IN HER WORDS...

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

On November 3, 2020, the American people turned out in record numbers CONG. JOHNSON across the country to participate in the democratic process. Texas was among the several states that shattered its previous turnout records. It is estimated that 66% of Texas’ 17 million registered showed up at the polls – nearly 7% higher than the 2016 general election and the highest total percentage since 1992. We owe a great debt of gratitude to those who worked tirelessly to protect the integrity, sanctity, and the safety of voters. The poll workers, election officials, and postal employees – heroes of democracy – risked their own health and safety to ensure a timely and accurate count. The coalition that elected the Biden Harris ticket is one of the broadest and most diverse that we have ever seen – one filled with both Democrats and Republicans, liberals and conservatives, and moderates and independents alike. On day one, it is clear that President Biden and Vice President Harris will take immediate action to restore a sense of leadership and decency to the White House. I am encouraged by this administration’s outlook on uniting this divided and hurting Nation. I am an advocate of diversity and inclusion because I know firsthand the benefits of taking an equitable approach when making decisions – it increases creativity, productivity, and performance.

It is time for our country to stand, work and exist peacefully together. I am ready to live up to our Nation’s name - the United States of America.

LET’S KEEP MAIN STREET, THE HEART OF AMERICA, GOING One of the primary roles government plays is to provide for the relief of its citizens through the creation of social programs that benefit the greater society. As a seasoned federal legislator, I have learned this lesson up close and personal. This is not a new phenomenon as we have seen examples many times over since our founding in 1776. So, in 2020, there is precedent for best practices and how to effectively deliver on our promise to be the voice of the people. However, the needs of everyday Americans are not being met. Since March, numerous problems caused by the Coronavirus Disease’s (COVID-19) global pandemic and the failure of the Trump administration must be addressed now.

In Congress, we stand on the front lines of providing assistance for families suffering as a result of this deadly virus that has now killed more than 213,000 – just in the United States alone. Unfortunately, and once again, our President has walked away from his responsibilities to protect the American people. He has shown the world who he is and what he truly represents.

In good faith, I along with my fellow House Democratic colleagues, cannot separate financial support to the airline industry when everyday working people are hurting. Nevertheless, government’s rescue must come to the aid of its people in as fair a way, as possible.

We should provide the resources in a broader spectrum that is equitable to everyone who needs it – not just Wall Street but Main Street as well. As Chair of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I will continue to push for an evidence-based plan that relies on science to crush the coronavirus.

HOMETOWN HERO It is time for our country to stand together, work together, and exist peacefully together. I am ready to live up to our Nation’s name - the United States of

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TRUMP CHARGED It is indeed a sad and stressful time in the history of our democracy. Had the founders of our country not believed that a discreditable chief executive would one day occupy the highest office in our land they would not have included a procedure in our constitution identifying steps to remove him or her from office.

The House has charged President Trump with abuse of power and contempt of Congress. In the first instance it is alleged that the president asked the president of Ukraine to personally assist him in his bid for reelection by producing unfavorable evidence on a political opponent, former Vice President Joe Biden. The second charge alleges that the president refused to allow aides in his administration to give sworn testimony before congressional panels, even though they received valid subpoenas. Even in the face of a ruling by a federal district court judge stating that the president was not a “king” who acts without constraints, President Trump decided to abandon prudence and insisted that his aides not appear, defying Congress. The power to issue subpoenas is a critical function of the Congress as a component of government, equal to both the presidency and the Supreme Court. That much is taught in high school civic classes.

SALUTE TO THE UNIFORM One veteran lost to suicide is too many. This year, on any given day, it is estimated that over 20 veterans take their lives. Families lose loved ones, communities lose neighbors, and our nation loses heroes. I have dedicated my career to supporting our veterans – first as the Chief Psychiatric Nurse at the Dallas VA Medical Center and now as a Member of Congress fighting on behalf of those served. As the granddaughter, daughter, niece, wife, and sister of veterans, I recognize the importance of supporting our servicemen and women both on and off the battlefield. It is more important now than ever before that we commit the necessary resources and care to overcome this national crisis.

That is why I worked with my colleagues in Congress to pass legislation designating the three-digit 9-8-8 as the new, simpler number for the National Suicide Hotline.

When enacted, this bill will make it easier for veterans to access help and treatment during a time of need. We owe our veterans a limitless debt of gratitude for the many sacrifices they made on behalf of our country... the need to address Veterans’ issues are on-going.

WOMEN IN POLITICS

HOMELESSNESS The authority and power of Congress are constitutionally-based, and cannot be voided by the whims of any single individual, even if that person happens to be the president of the United States. Certainly President Trump should understand that. Violent acts against the homeless should be regardedas hate crimes. In our nation’s public schools, the number of children who live in homeless families has increased during the past decade. It is as if we care very little about these children and their attempts to learn and secure a safe a safe place for themselves in this the richest country on earth. As the co-chair of the Congressional Homelessness Caucus, I witness

VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN “The progress that the Violence Against Women Act has helped achieve came as a result of both parties in Congress working together to provide protections that addressed a serious issue, not just during its initial passage in 1994 but again when it was twice reauthorized. As these provisions are set to expire in only four legislative days, I am hopeful that the Majority will join together with Democrats to pass a bill that would restore this vital law. With a show of bipartisan support, Congress can send a strong message that the American people will not tolerate violent crimes against women.”

The respect that they have garnered is not a result of their ethnicities. Among other traits it is a result of their characters. While no presidency is without its imperfections, it should be noted that during the eight years that the Obamas were our nation’s first couple, there were no personal scandals associated with either of them. Their friends and those that worked for the administration did not find themselves consumed with having to testify before investigators and prosecutors, nor were there a myriad of criminal indictments. In fact, there were none. Americans have always longed for those of good character and sound judgement to lead and inspire them. They witnessed such qualities in President and First Lady Obama whom they have honored, and rightly so!!

HON. HELEN GIDDINGS w/ REP. JOHNSON Over the years, a number of academics who have studied women in political life have concluded that those countries in which there is a significant presence of women legislators are less likely to get involved in conflicts that lead to war. Women in political life are less likely to be polemicists and, more frequently, choose to reason with their colleagues rather than verbally assault them. They understand the art and the importance of compromise. I am extremely excited about the number of women in the House of Representatives, as are a number of my male colleagues who believe, as I do, that the presence of greater numbers of women will only make our decisions wiser, more equitable and just for our nation, and its people.

LGBTQ COMMUNITY

CLERGY PRAY FOR CONGRESSWOMAN JOHNSON DURING ANNUAL PRAYER BREAKFAST America. Dozens of veterans will gather together at Pearl Harbor onboard the U.S.S. Missouri, where the original surrender took place, to honor the lives of those we have since lost, celebrate the lives of those who are still here, and to remind us of the tragedy and sacrifice associated with war. This Congress, and for the 13th consecutive Congress, I introduced H.R. 5549, the Doris Miller Medal of Honor Act of 2020. This bill, which would waive the five-year statute of limitations to authorize the President of the United States to award Doris Miller the Medal of Honor posthumously, has 57 bipartisan cosponsors and is endorsed by the NAACP, AMVETS, the National Association of Black Veterans, Inc., and DORIE MILLER the Association of the United States Navy, to name a few. Doris Miller’s story is one of gallantry and patriotism – one of a man who fought for many things in life but only died for one: his country.

At the naming of the Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station in Dallas.

firsthand the problems that homeless people face, and I am committed, as are many of my colleagues in Congress, to compassionate, reasonable and immediate action that will end homelessness. I am also committed to the restoration of full civil rights for those who are homeless, and to promulgating policies that will end their plight as they deserve better than they are being offered. We must provide them with housing, and other social, health and economic programs that will halt their criminalization and demonization. They, like the rest of us, deserve the best that this country has to offer.

THE OBAMAS It should come as no surprise to those who observe the American political and social landscape that former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama have recently been named in a recent nationwide Gallup Poll as the most admired man and woman in our country. It is quite interesting that exactly 400 years after the first slaves were brought to our country in 1619, brutally treated and disdained; the two people receiving the most reverence by our population are Americans who, like the slaves, are people of color.

“We still live in a time when across this country our LGBT friends and family members can still be fired from their jobs or evicted from their apartment just because of who they are or who they love. We all must to do more to protect the dignity of the LGBT community. I commit myself to continuing to fight for full legal and societal equality for LGBT people.

“Pride Month recognizes the courage it takes for LGBT people to come out as their true selves into a society that is not always accepting. It is an observance of those who have fought for equality, in some case losing their freedom or even their lives. And it is a celebration of how far we have all come, for when we are more welcoming to our LGBT friends and family we are a stronger, more resilient and more unified society.

I pledge to keep fighting to ensure LGBT Americans have the safety and security they deserve in our Dallas community and across the nation.

WOMEN FOR WORLD PEACE I firmly believe that the burden of peacemaking and peace-building cannot be left to one institution, gender, or political party. It must be a shared responsibility that encompasses all, regardless of race, class, gender or religion. Through this initiative, I have worked to bring attention to those who are revolutionizing the peace movement. Whether meeting with international women’s delegations or hosting events in Dallas or on Capitol Hill, I hope to bring peaceful conflict resolution

SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER!

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SERVANT LEADER

Let us rededicate ourselves to creating a country where all are welcome, all are free and all are equal.�

Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson receives one of many honors The Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson

Taking care of business in Austin

Legislators

Congresswoman Johnson at work

Pat Johnson and St. Rep. Toni Rose

Congresswoman Johnson speaking truth to power Earlier days in Austin

At the White House

Sailing

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, President George Bush, Congressman Elijah Cummings

Taking the oath

Hon. Faith Johnson

Dr. Vivian Johnson

In Washington D.C. with Speaker Pelosi

With President Bill Clinton

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TRAILBLAZER

Rep. Jesse Jones, Pettis Norman, President Jimmy Carter with Cong. Johnson.

Both Congresswoman Johnson and Her sister, Sallye Moore (pictured with her son, Greg), have schools named in their honor Hon. John Lewis visits with his friend, Congresswoman Johnson at Dallas’ African American Museum

Cong. Johnson Businessman John Beckwith

Congresswoman Johnson speaks TX. Gov. Ann Richards, State Sens. Eddie Bernice Johnson and Rodney Ellis

U.S. Reps. Cummings and Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson and Congressman Colin Allred

Sens. Rodney Ellis, Royce West and Ambassador Ron Kirk Congressional Black Caucus, led by U.S. Reps Cummings and Johnson

Discussing mental health

Cong. Johnson w/ Ken Carter, presents Trailblazer Award to Gary Hasty

Dallas ISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa at EBJ School

Photo: Eva D. Coleman

In session

Judge Sandra Jackson and DeSoto Mayor Curtistene McCowan

Congressional Black Caucus

with staffer Damarcus Offord

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HAPPY 85TH BIRTHDAY, U.S. REP. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON She loves Black Jack Pizza and she is very supportive. Ever since we’ve been here, over 30 years, Congresswoman Johnson has patronized us. She’s a hard worker and we are proud of her. We honor and wish her a very happy birthday from her family at BlackJack Pizza!

Dorothy Jones, Black Jack Pizza

When it comes to her work and her legacy, you can point and see the work that she has done. Three words I would use to describe her: tenacity, servant leader, and leader. She really is a consummate leader.

Texas State Rep. Lorraine Birabil I’ve been knowing her for a long time and she always has been passionate about what she believes and what she does. She has been a deliverer for the city of Dallas and Congress. DART owes its existence to Eddie Bernice Johnson because of what she has been able to deliver in Congress, transportation, and to the city of Dallas.

Ken Carter, Focus Communications Eddie Bernice Johnson has a long impressive list of ‘firsts’ as a public servant. I have known the honorable congresswoman since her elected days as a Texas State Senator.

She has always been a cheerleader and champion for women. She has been to Africa talking to women, talking about education, and she is a RN. Her impact is imaginable, and she is a great hostess. She doesn’t sit in one place.

Ester Davis I’ve known her for it seems like forever. She has been such a force in this community.

Her sister and I went to the same church for years. One of the first things that caught my attention with her is with my son in high school and she gave him an honor for his academic and athletic ability. All of the projects that she has supported from her congressional standpoint, the trinity river bridges, the DFW Airport, or DART, you can look at the root of all of that federal money and you’ll find Eddie Bernice Johnson. I just have so much appreciation for how she has reached out to her community from both a personal and professional standpoint.

Willis Johnson, JBJ Management Congresswoman Johnson has been an exemplary public servant. We are thankful for her distinguished record of service.

Dr. Michael Sorrell, Paul Quinn College President

The Congresswoman has been extremely supportive of women in politics and I appreciate her leadership and mentorship. She has always extended an open door and sent congratulatory messages after my elections as Justice of the Peace. Whenever, I have taken my twins to Washington, D.C., she has been available to meet with Melvin, Madeline and McKenna, and me and ensured that we had an awesome time in the nation’s capital. I was elated that they named a school in her honor in Wilmer, Texas and I requested that my Jack

and Jill Chapter, Southwest Suburban Dallas sponsor a closet of care for the students in need at that school. She is iconic, respected, and has modeled for many how to be more of a public servant than a politician.

Judge Valencia Nash I worked for Congressman Johnson on three separate occasions. Working in her office was one of the most definitive times in my career. I learned so much from her. No one has the experience that she has. Yes, she is challenging to work for because she has such high expectations, and she wants those expectations to be met and I appreciate her for that. I know that I wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for the experience that I have gained from working with her, a woman like her. She does what she does out of genuine love of this city, the constituents, the 30th congressional district that are underserved.

Becky Lewis Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson’s outstanding service to our community demonstrates a life commitment to giving back to others, for the better empowerment of our city.

Happy 85th birthday to you!

Hon. Mark Cooks, Duncanville City Council

a designated route, and she walked the full length. I had never seen a candidate ever walk the full length of the parade. I never asked her about it, but she made the choice. That spoke to me because she had and chose to have a certain connection to the people. I see her as a person who is of the people. That to me has sent her to Washington, and it has kept her in Washington.

She has built up such a link that she is automatically who they think about turning to. She is just an automatic go-to person.

Norma Adams-Wade I was introduced to the Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson by the late Gladys Collins many years ago prior to her advancing her desire to pursue public service beyond Dallas, Texas. To me, it takes courage to offer one’s self to politics. Mrs. Johnson entered the political arena at a time when it was new to Black women to do so. She showed the courage to run and took a wealth of wisdom and knowledge to Capitol Hill with her. She remains an asset we should all be proud of.

Ella Johnson, Women’s Council of Dallas County,President

Congresswoman Johnson has affected my life and the lives of so many others in a very loving way.

Mr. Joe Green Bishop The phrase I have often used is, she is grace under pressure. She embodies and epitomizes grace under pressure.

The thing I always associate with the congresswoman is always being reminded that you are a representative and that you are not there for your own interest, but to represent the people that you serve. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, your desire to help others has led you to be a trailblazer. We have all been blessed by your years of service. Happy Birthday!

Atty. Cheryl Wattley

I used to work with Rep. EBJ at Visiting Nurses Association back in the 1980s. My family and I have voted for her every time she ran. We are both AKAs. Congresswoman EBJ was very good about sending her staff to meetings and events if she could not attend. She was also good about recognizing milestones without being asked. For example, when my church, St John’s Lutheran, (ELCA) celebrated 65 years in Black community, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson sent us a letter acknowledging the mission work in Oak Cliff when the neighborhood was transitioning from white to Black. What was even a great surprise was a letter she sent acknowledging the work of the Dallas Civil Rights Museum during the 5th anniversary.

Mrs. Emma Rodgers

We have known her way before she was a Congresswoman, for 32 years.

We so admired her personally and her professionally, her work with STEM projects, transportation, but at any rate, she is gentle. She is known as a gentle congresswoman from Texas. She is soft spoken, but she can swing a big stick. She and I are in the same sorority. She will fight for you and she will be right there with you. She certainly did so when it came to stem, she is all for empowering young girls and young women in the areas of science and math. She has a big heart and a listening ear and those two, combine can do so much. She is just a good person and deserving of any accolade. She is our lady, our diamond in Washington. Three words I would use to describe her are that she is stylish, sensitive, and proud. She is gentle and tough. She is also humble. She fights when she needs to fight. She is sensitive when she needs to be. Happy Birthday to my friend, my sister in the sorority, and my sister in Christ. Skeee-wee!!!!!!! pitrehorse@ sbcglobal.net Mr. and Mrs. Pennie and Robert Pitre Congresswoman Johnson has been a trailblazer for elected officials here in Dallas. Recently, I have gotten to know her personally and consider her a mentor and a source of inspiration.

Hon. Casey Thomas, Dallas City Council I recall her marching in a parade along MLK Boulevard, which at that time would have been Forest Avenue. What struck me is that I’m used to candidates riding and waving in the vehicle, but this woman was walking the full length of that parade.

Those parades at the time started from city hall and then they had

I’ve been privileged to know Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson for most of my life as a personal, professional and political mentor, and frankly as my other Mother. Her service to the people or Dallas, State of Texas and our Nation has always been rooted in her love of our community and unyielding commitment to make life more equal and just for all of us. Dallas would not be the city it is today without the many contributions of Congresswoman Johnson.

Hon. Ron Kirk She was a nurse by trade, and I am a dentist by trade. She taught me the true meaning of politics which is to care for people that cannot help themselves. She is the most caring, wonderful person, and she is one of the most incredible human beings that you will ever meet. Happy Birthday to the wonderful and caring Eddie Bernice Johnson, who has a heart of gold. We love you.

Dr. Dale Robinowitz Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson...A stalwart leader who’s humble spirit, preparedness, and uncompromising character have proven to be her virtues of success. She has always been a woman of confidence who’s mere presence demands respect and acknowledgement. Always ready to discuss issues with intelligence and not seeking pompous recognition. Among the many things I learned from Congresswoman Johnson is the unspoken lesson to approach every task with preparedness and with confidence.

Esperanza Worley I have known Eddie Bernice Johnson over 40 years as a friend, politician, mentor, and confidant.

I have found her to be a true representative of the people. I have also observed that she is committed to her constituents while remaining responsive to the public in general. I admire her dedication and commitment to preserve any project that would benefit Dallas and the entire metroplex. After having spent long hours carrying out her rigorous daily schedule, I specifically recall her availing herself to late calls at night to help resolve issues to save a much-needed agency in Dallas.

Mayor Ron and Peggy Jones Her wisdom, understanding, compassion and tenacity have served us well over the years both in Washington and at home where her heart belongs. She continues to be a guardian and champion for our rights. As I reflect on her sacrifices and service over the years on this special birthday, I can recall many occasions of being with her in Washington. Once during our annual U.S. Conference of Mayor’s I had the opportunity to attend a luncheon the Congresswoman held for supporters to which to my delight she asked me to do the invocation and bless the food. Upon coming to the podium she said this is one of my favorite Mayor/Pastors. She has always been centered on her faith and I have always valued that about her.

I’m praying you enjoy your day to fullest - and find His goodness in every part of it. Happy Birthday Texas State Rep. Carl Sherman, Sr. MY MOTHER IS A SPECIAL PERSON. SHE HAS GIVEN SO MUCH TO SO MANY. I’M AN ONLY CHILD, BUT SHE HAS BEEN A ‘MOTHER’ TO SO MANY AND I AM VERY PROUD OF HER, THE WORK SHE HAS DONE AND WHAT SHE CONTINUES TO DO. Kirk Johnson

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It will take the collective and united effort of Americans of every race and religion, from every corner of our country to usher in a society that lives up to its founding ideals of equal liberty and equal justice for all.

The Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson U.S. House of Representatives

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson is serving her 14th term representing the 30th Congressional District of Texas. The 30th District is entirely within Dallas County and encompasses a large portion of the City of Dallas as well as the entire cities of DeSoto, Duncanville, Lancaster, and Hutchins. Portions of the cities of Balch Springs, Cedar Hill, Ferris, Glenn Heights, Ovilla, and Wilmer are also in the district. The Dallas portion of the district is home to the downtown central business district and Arts District, as well as the neighborhoods of Fair Park, Cadillac Heights, the Cedars, Victory Park, Uptown, Oak Lawn, Love Field, Urban Park, Pleasant Grove, Joppa, South Oak Cliff, Deep Ellum, Munger Place, Swiss Avenue, Lower Greenville, Forest Hills, and West Dallas.

Congresswoman Johnson is the first AfricanAmerican and woman to chair the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee after being elected to the position in January 2019 and is the most senior Texan on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

She is the Dean of the Texas Congressional Delegation and also serves as Dean of the Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona Democratic Congressional Delegation. Upon her election to the House of Representatives in 1992, she became the first nurse ever elected to Congress.

In December 2010, Congresswoman Johnson was elected as the first African American and the first female Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology. From 2000 to 2002, she was the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Research and Science Education where she emphasized education in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines.

Congresswoman Johnson has been a member of the House Science and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees since being sworn into office in January 1993. In 2007, Congresswoman Johnson was appointed by House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman James L. Oberstar (D-MN) to serve as Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment during the 110th and 111th Congresses. The Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment has jurisdiction over water conservation, pollution control, infrastructure, and hazardous waste cleanup. The subcommittee is also responsible for reauthorizing the Clean Water Act. Congresswoman Johnson has also served in position of Senior Democratic Deputy Whip; Chair of the House Metro Congestion Coalition; Co-Chair for the Congressional Caucus on Homelessness, and Co-

Chair for the TEX-21 Congressional Caucus, which is a forum to address Texas transportation needs through the reauthorization of TEA-21. She is Founder and CoChair of the Diversity and Innovation Caucus and of the House Historical Black Colleges and Universities Caucus.

In addition, Congresswoman Johnson served as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus during the 107th Congress.

Since coming to Congress, Congresswoman Johnson has earned the reputation of being a stateswoman who is dedicated to improving U.S. foreign relationships and policies. She works tirelessly towards improving human rights around the globe. Congresswoman Johnson's acclaimed initiative "A World of Women for World Peace" has been nationally and internationally recognized.

Congresswoman Johnson studied nursing at St. Mary's College in South Bend, Indiana where she received her diploma. After returning to her native Texas, she successfully passed the National Board Examination in Nursing. She later became Chief Psychiatric Nurse at the VA Hospital in Dallas, and earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from Texas Christian University in 1967. She received a master's degree in public administration from Southern Methodist University in 1976.

Congresswoman Johnson was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1972 and became the first woman in Texas history to lead a major Texas House committee, the Labor Committee. As an advocate for workers, children, and families, she was recognized and appointed by President Jimmy Carter to serve as Regional Director of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1977. In 1986, she was elected a Texas state Senator, becoming the first female and African-American from the Dallas area to hold this office since Reconstruction.

Congresswoman Johnson is widely recognized as one of the most effective legislators in Congress. She is credited with originally authoring and co-authoring more than 150 bills that were passed by the House and Senate and signed into law. She also has a long-standing reputation for providing excellent constituent services.

Her district office in downtown Dallas specializes in working with all federal departments and agencies to assist constituents in solving a wide range of individual problems.

Congresswoman Johnson is the proud mother of her son, Kirk, and of her three grandsons, Kirk Jr., David, and James.