Memorializing the Honorable John Lewis

Floor Speech

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Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in honor of a beloved colleague and wonderful friend, John Lewis.

I first met John when my husband, Bob Matsui, was a Member of Congress. Bob loved John. He loved him for his humanity, his conviction, and the fact that he was a total human being.

I had heard so much about John because he was a historic figure, but I saw another side of him, too, when Bob brought him to Sacramento. He met many people. And I remember his walking across a university campus with the president of the university when he ran across, Bob and he and John, a bunch of chickens that the students were advocating to keep on campus. The president was saying: No. We have got to get the chickens out.

The president said: Excuse me, Mr. Lewis, but we are going to get rid of those chickens.

And John said: No way are you going to get rid of those chickens. I learned to preach by preaching to chickens.

That is the part of John that I really loved, too, that humorous part, the part you can laugh with.

But this gentle giant lived also every single day to overcome injustice, eradicate racism, and give hope to all who walked beside him. He is a total person.

At this moment in our history when speaking truth to power is so vital, it is more important than ever to follow John's words, to ``stand up, speak out, and keep your eyes on the prize.''

John taught us all that America is greater than the sum of its parts. When you weave a rich, colorful tapestry, the weaving itself makes it strong. His impact will be forever felt in our Nation's conscience, and we are all better for it.

At this difficult time, my prayers are with the Lewis family and all his friends. He will be sorely missed.

I love you, John.

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