Aretha Franklin Post Office Building

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3976, introduced by my friend, Representative Brenda Lawrence.

This bill, as has been mentioned, names a post office located in Detroit, Michigan, in honor of the ``Queen of Soul,'' Aretha Franklin.

Aretha Franklin was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and civil rights activist, and so we want to give honor where honor is due.

She began her career as a child singing at her church in Detroit. For the next six decades, her distinctive voice captivated listeners and influenced countless other singers.

So it is my delight to rise in support of this particular bill. It is out of ``Respect'' for my good friend from Michigan, and so we will ``Say a Little Prayer'' and hope that this goes through.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York.

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Mr. MEADOWS. Mr. Speaker, I will just cut to the chase. Let's get this thing done and get it over with and make sure that we show the ``respect'' that we should.

Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York.

Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of H.R. 3976. I had the opportunity to meet Aretha Franklin several times. She was a great friend of Charlie Rangel and would often perform for his events. She very generously gave her time to raise money for all kinds of civic rights events. She was a remarkable person and a great singer.

Mr. Speaker, I urge everyone to support this important legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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