Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of 90s R&B Vocal icons Boyz II Men, who will be performing at the Historic Madam Walker Legacy Theater in Indianapolis and inducted into the Madam Walker Legacy Center's Walk of Fame.

Boyz II Men was founded in 1988 as a quintet but rose to fame as a quartet and then an iconic trio. The group grew into the spotlight in the 90s with hits like ``Motownphilly,'' ``A Song for Mama,'' and the fan favorite, ``I'll Make Love to You.''

Boyz II Men has been captivating audiences worldwide for over three decades. With the voices of Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, and Shawn Stockman, the group is one of the most successful groups in music history, with over 60 million albums sold. Their career and impact on our culture has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Indianapolis is thrilled to have Boyz II Men join us at the Legacy Fest, an event benefiting the Madam Walker Legacy Center. This signature fundraiser provides support for the organization's year-round STEAM, entrepreneurship, women's equity, social justice, and arts programming.

Today, we celebrate Boyz II Men for their long-lasting career and enduring talent. Thirty years later, their impact is just as strong, with fans across generations and continents. I am honored to help recognize Boyz II Men and cement their legacy into the Madam Walker Legacy Center Walk of Fame.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to introduce the bipartisan Eid Day Act, which would create a federal holiday for Eid. I thank Rep. Grace Meng and my other House colleagues that joined me to support this bill. Eid al-Adha is an Islamic holiday which commemorates Abraham's symbolic sacrifice of his son to God, as referenced in the Quran, Old Testament, and New Testament. Eid al-Adha also marks the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, called Hajj. Eid al-Fitr is an Islamic holiday which commemorates the sighting of the new moon, signifying a month- long end to fasting and reflection for all Muslim followers.

Eid is a holiday of great importance to over 3.5 million American Muslims. Whether it be in the military, government, health, business or other leadership positions, Muslim Americans have always contributed to our country. Eid is a meaningful occasion for the Muslim community to reflect and celebrate on the importance of faith, sacrifice, freedom, and justice--the same values that all Americans hold dear. This year, Eid al-Adha will be celebrated on June 16th. We must continually strive to create a more inclusive nation and honor the diverse tapestry that makes up this country. Muslim Americans have meaningfully contributed to the American society since the nation's early history. They cherish American values, take pride in the country's pluralism, multiculturalism, and its embodiment as the land of liberty and opportunity.

Recognizing Eid as a Federal Holiday will allow them to not only freely practice their faith, but also help them feel more at home and connect better with America's spirit as a religious minority. This bill is particularly timely given the alienation that parts of the Muslim American community feel after years of anti-Muslim sentiments as well as recent developments in the Middle-East. As Members of Congress, we need to uphold the values that our nation was founded on, including freedom of religion and equality for all.

Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing and uplifting this important cultural and historical celebration by making Eid a federal holiday.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of former Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Chief James Toler who lived a life of selfless and profound service to the Indianapolis community. Chief Toler passed away on June 4, 2024, at the age of 82.

James Toler has been described as a trailblazer. He came from humble beginnings and worked long nights climbing up the ranks from sergeant to major before he was appointed Indianapolis' first Black police chief. Chief Toler understood the magnitude of his service, sharing he ``felt a tremendous responsibility to do very well in the position so that if the opportunity comes for the selection of another minority, they would never be able to look at me and look at me as a failure.''

During his tenure, Chief Toler implemented community policing within IMPD, improving connections between police and Indianapolis residents. This model was relatively unknown at the time but is now utilized nationwide. He also played a key role in helping IMPD's administration become more efficient. Chief Toler retired from IMPD in 2001 following 38 years of service.

Chief Toler will always be remembered by not only his biological family and loving friends, but also through his special relationship with the entire Indianapolis community. We treasure the legacy he leaves. James' blood, sweat, and tears paved the way for so many, and he will continue to serve as an inspiration to all who want to make a difference in the world.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me honoring a true Hoosier public servant. Our thoughts are with his family during this time.

Mr. Speaker, unfortunately I was detained in the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, serving as the ranking member for a classified briefing on counterterrorism and antisemitism, and missed Roll Call vote 233. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on H. Res. 1215, calling on elected officials and civil society leaders to join in efforts to educate the public on the contributions of the Jewish American Community.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to present Dr. Dorothy ``Doty'' Simpson-Taylor, founder of the Sister Soldier Network, with the Sheila Corcoran Hoosier Hero Award for her service to country and community. Inspired by its namesake, this award was created to highlight exemplary Hoosier women veterans whose service to their community and nation is unparalleled.

Well-known throughout the Indianapolis and surrounding communities, Doty's service began in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War and has continued over the span of five decades as a former American Legion Indiana District 11 Women Veterans Representative and Commander of AMVETS Post 99 in Indianapolis. A retired psychologist and former faculty member and administrator at multiple universities, Doty uses her unique blend of skills to give back to the community.

Doty is guided by her belief that ``everybody ought to provide some service to the community of humanity.'' With this in mind, she has always been an outspoken trailblazer for the Black community. In 2010, Doty founded the Sister Soldier Network, a veteran organization that helps women transition from the military back into society. Combining her passion to uplift others with tangible actions, the Sister Soldier Network sheds a well-deserved light on women veterans, while also serving as a resource to help guide her peers in topics such as homelessness, discrimination, and community involvement.

In 2019, Doty was presented the Jefferson Award in recognition of her community service. In 2022, she was inducted into the Indiana Military Hall of Fame. She also received the Congressional Black Caucus Award for leadership in veteran issues with the Congressional Black Caucus Brain Trust and is a member of the Cedar Valley Coalition of Black Veterans.

Doty's commitment to service has led her to be an impactful leader, mentor, and wise counsel. She has created a legacy of compassion, care, and healing for her fellow veterans and has served as a voice of her peers in the military and veteran communities.

Doty continues to uplift the incredible women veterans around her, and it brings me great joy to commemorate and uplift her in the same manner. As we celebrate National Military Appreciation Month, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Dorothy ``Doty'' Simpson-Taylor. We celebrate her legacy of outstanding accomplishments and advocacy.

Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, the chair closed the tally as I was attempting to vote on Roll Call No. 217. I would have voted NAY on H.R. 8369, to preserve President Biden's ability to carry out decisions for our national security. The bill condemns President Biden for his policy adjustment on arms sales to Israel and would prevent both the Administration and Congress from slowing weapons transfers in light of credible evidence of human rights violations.

Mr. Speaker, I commend Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Larson for their hard work to bring this bipartisan FAA Reauthorization bill to the House floor.

I am very pleased that this bill includes some of my top priorities:

First, this bill advances implementation of my 2018 provisions requiring Secondary Cockpit Barriers in Section 350 of the bill. This language will be made even stronger to speed up the process and finally get these safety devices on all passenger aircraft to protect flight crews and passengers.

Second, I support the bill's provisions improving minority and disadvantaged business participation in all FAA programs. This will expand business opportunities for minority businesses and bring in fresh talent to carry out new projects authorized in this bill.

I also strongly support the investments in airport infrastructure, plus investments to strengthen the aviation workforce and make it more diverse.

Unfortunately, I'm very disappointed that the Senate struck my bipartisan provisions to create a new National Center for the Advancement of Aviation which was approved by the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the full House. I will continue working to create this center, which will improve our aviation workforce and promote best practices across all sectors, including commercial, military, and general aviation.

But overall, this is a good bill and I urge my colleagues to support this reauthorization.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to present Linda Lewis-Everett with the Sheila Corcoran Hoosier Women Hero Award for her service to the country, community, and the city of Indianapolis.

Each month, my office recognizes women veterans who are often overlooked and underrepresented, especially women of color. Inspired by its namesake, this award was created to highlight exemplary Hoosier women veterans whose service to their community and nation is unparalleled. These women are inspirational and guided by a deep love for their fellow veterans.

Known to many for her commitment to assisting others, Linda's journey of service began at the young age of 22 when she enlisted in the United States Army, where she proudly served our country and achieved the rank of Sergeant. Her training in the Army led to 22 years in the United States Postal Service, before she retired in 2013. Linda has since continued to dedicate her life to the betterment of all Americans through her work and advocacy in justice, politics, and culture. As one of the Top Ladies of Distinction, her work on health wellness initiatives such as the American Cancer Society and Senior Citizens Connect has furthered Indianapolis' goal of becoming a leader in the medical industry.

Combining her love for philanthropy with heritage, Linda is a steadfast and outspoken advocate for the Black community and women veterans. Her volunteer work with the National Council of Negro Women, the Indiana Black Expo, as well as her organization Boundless Blessing, are a testament to her legacy of service and to her Ghanaian ancestry. In 2019, Linda received the Author Academy Award for her best-selling book: ``I Still Hear the Drums.'' She continues to celebrate her love of community and culture through her church, food pantry, and the various civic and social organizations she supports.

Her kindness, compassion, and selflessness have cultivated a movement spreading positive lasting impacts for our community and beyond.

Especially as we celebrate National Volunteer Month this April, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Linda Lewis-Everett for her decades of continued service to Hoosiers and to our Nation.

Mr Chair, today I rise in support of H.R. 7888, Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act, to reauthorize the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). As someone who has worked in law enforcement and served the intelligence community for many years, I feel strongly that the FISA Authority, including Section 702, must not be allowed to lapse. This could pose a grave danger to our national security. I believe the changes and reforms included in this bill will protect our safety while also preserving our civil liberties.

I voted in the Intelligence Committee to reauthorize this vital legislation because I believe it represents a solid bipartisan approach. The bill includes reforms I fought for, and I believe it strikes the proper balance of protecting our national security in a way that is consistent with our American values. We know the FISA authority has been abused in the past, and that is unacceptable. That's why the reforms included in this bill are essential.

Provisions I recommended in the bill prevent individuals from being unfairly targeted based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or ethnicity by preventing the search of a person's name simply based on those factors. As a Black, Muslim man who has been the victim of profiling, this was personal for me--and I'm glad language to codify these essential protections is included in today's bill.

It's disappointing that some of my colleagues and dedicated advocates have described our Intelligence Committee bill as fake reform, or a sham. That's not the case. Our committee's bill prohibits agencies from conducting a query for the purpose of suppressing political speech, reinforcing one of the most American liberties there is: the right to free speech.

Finally, the bill improves and codifies accountability for the FBI in particular and prevents future abuses.

This is not the end of our work to protect Americans' civil liberties in U.S. intelligence, but this program is too important for our national security to allow it to expire or experience any lapses. I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a Hoosier whose service to country and community has endured for over three decades. Lisa Wilken is a former airman and advocate who has dedicated her career to uplifting her fellow veterans.

Lisa's service began in the United States Air Force and continues today through her work with veteran service organizations as a fierce advocate for veteran-friendly legislation at both the Indiana Statehouse and the United States Congress.

As an active member of multiple veteran organizations, Lisa has advocated for veterans at every stage. Far too often the assistance veterans require post-service is not accessible, or just nonexistent. Lisa's experience in the Air Force enabled her to become an advocate for lifechanging legislation at the Indiana Statehouse, including securing tax exemptions for disabled veterans, Veteran Service Officer accreditation, tuition coverage and free programs for dependents of disabled veterans, and the creation of the State Women Veteran Coordinator position at the Indiana Department of Veteran Affairs.

Lisa has prioritized recognizing and serving overlooked constituencies in the military community, especially women veterans. She testified before Congress to raise awareness for the lack of funding for military sexual trauma veterans. In 2017, she was honored by the State of Indiana with the Torchbearer Award, and in 2023, she was inducted into the Indiana Military Veterans Hall of Fame. Lisa Wilken has established a legacy in the Indianapolis and surrounding communities that will be felt and deeply appreciated for future generations of service women and men.

Even within the veteran community, women veterans tend to be overlooked and underrecognized. That is why I am proud to honor the many Hoosier women veterans who selflessly serve our community. Beginning with its namesake, the Sheila Corcoran Hoosier Women Hero Award was created to highlight exemplary Hoosier women veterans whose service to their community and Nation is unparalleled. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Lisa Wilken. I thank Lisa for her service and for her advocacy as she continues to be a voice of her peers, for her persistence, and for her commitment to the veteran community.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of Indiana Senator Jean Breaux, who lived a life of selfless and profound service to the Indianapolis community.

For decades, Senator Breaux served our community with her signature fierce advocacy and fighting spirit. Prior to holding office, Senator Breaux worked for the Indiana Department of Economic Development, where she fought for Hoosiers of all backgrounds. In 2006, she was elected to the Indiana Senate--following in the footsteps of her mother, Billie Breaux--and served as assistant Democratic leader for the Senate Democratic Caucus from 2012 to 2020.

In her role, Senator Breaux fought tirelessly for vulnerable and disadvantaged Hoosiers. In particular, she worked to improve Black infant and maternal mortality, increased access to healthy food in food deserts, protected Hoosiers from rising utility costs, fought for reproductive justice, passed policies to address poverty, advocated for gun violence prevention to keep our communities safe, and so much more. In her role on the Senate Health Committee, she helped combat health disparities in the Black community and pushed for comprehensive access to care. Equity was always at the center of her service. Senator Breaux's initiative to eliminate school textbook fees passed last year, which will help Hoosier families for generations to come.

Senator Breaux's impact on our community is reflected in the outpouring of grief and support as the entire Indiana community mourns this substantial loss. She was a great friend, mentor, and confidante to so many, including myself. On many occasions, I relied on her wisdom to guide me, and the lessons she taught us all will continue to endure. On behalf of the entire 7th Congressional District, we offer our condolences to those grieving this significant loss, especially her beloved mother, former Senator Billie Breaux.

Today, we honor the life and legacy of Senator Jean Breaux, but we will continue to honor her every day moving forward by heeding her advice: fight for those less fortunate, no matter the obstacles in the way, speak up against injustice, and never stop working towards a brighter future.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a Hoosier whose exemplary service has led to the betterment of Indianapolis and our Nation. Christina Owens of the Indianapolis Vet Center served as a combat medic in Iraq and has since been aiding and encouraging veterans through the various changes in life that arise after military discharge.

Christina's service to country began in Iraq as a combat medic in the U.S. Army and continues through her work with the Indianapolis Vet Center and the Indianapolis Veteran Court Mentor Program. As the Post Commander for IUPUI's American Legion Post No. 360 and as District 11's Vice Commander, she continues to serve her community in a significant way by providing support to Hoosier veterans and their families, enabling so many to overcome immense challenges and lead healthy and meaningful lives.

Her work to engage veterans through programs like Irreverent Warriors is inspiring, and as a liaison between veterans and a variety of services, her mentorship and advocacy directly impacts the lives of Hoosier veterans. For her unwavering advocacy, Christina has received numerous accolades, and the legacy she has fostered will be cherished by Hoosiers for years to come.

Each month, our office recognizes women veterans who are too often overlooked and underrepresented. Beginning with its namesake, the Sheila Corcoran Hoosier Women Hero Award was created to highlight exemplary Hoosier veterans whose service to their community and Nation is unparalleled. I am proud to honor Christina Owens for her service to our community and country by recognizing her here today.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the inspirational woman veteran, Christina Owens.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of Demetrius West and The Jesus Promoters Gospel Choir on their 20th anniversary.

Demetrius was influenced by his great-grandmother and discovered his passion for gospel music at an early age. As an internationally- renowned recording artist, he has shared the stage with notable Gospel and Christian artists such as Marvin Sapp, Byron Cage, Kirk Franklin, and Chris Tomlin. His work made the Billboard Music Charts several times and has held several No. 1 hits on Gospel airplay radio charts. In 2015, Demetrius released the album ``Jesus Promoter'' in 2015 featuring award-winning Earnest Pugh and 40-voice choir, The Jesus Promoters.

An Indianapolis native, Demetrius has a deep-rooted sense of community, exemplified by his support to the Resource Hub Foundation, Westside Baptist Church, and other local organizations aiding families in need. He is additionally involved in local politics and elections, and as Minister of Music and Arts for the Westside Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Michael O. Bryant. He has assisted many choirs, groups, soloists, and musicians with his knowledge and love of music by conducting workshops and seminars nationwide to help other ministries perfect their talents.

Music helps us translate joy, sorrow, and faith. Demetrius West and The Jesus Promoters is a voice that resonates across generations and will continue to play a role in the cultural fabric of our community.

Demetrius is married to the lovely Shalette West, and they have one beautiful daughter, Zanobia Denise.

I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Demetrius West and The Jesus Promoters Gospel Choir on their 20-year celebration.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to reintroduce this resolution, with my colleague, Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina. Our resolution supports the designation of Rare Disease Day on the last day of February. I am pleased that this resolution has been endorsed by the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and am thankful for their leadership on these critical issues over many years.

Nearly one in ten Americans live with one or more of the roughly 7,000 known rare diseases. More than half of those struggling with rare diseases--defined as affecting less than 200,000 people--are children. Sadly, many rare diseases and conditions are serious, life-threatening, and lack effective treatments. These are not just statistics: I am sure most of us know at least one family member or friend who has been affected by or struggled with the unique challenges of rare diseases.

Moreover, as we observe Black History Month, it's important to know that African Americans and other minorities are especially vulnerable to rare diseases, including Sickle Cell Anemia and Sarcoidosis. These diseases and conditions--including Thalassemia and Hereditary ATTR (hATTR) amyloidosis--disproportionately affect African Americans. Despite these unique obstacles, African Americans have an inspiring tradition of both combatting rare diseases and improving medical science.

One great example is Dr. Charles Drew, an African American scientist who helped found the modem ``blood bank,'' which helped dramatically expand blood transfusions. A faculty member at Howard University, Dr. Drew's pioneering work in blood transfusions took place against the backdrop of segregation and discrimination. During his time overseeing the Red Cross's blood plasma donation program, Dr. Drew was prohibited from donating his own blood because of the color of his skin. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Drew's work improved the practice of blood transfusions, which is now a lifeline for many individuals struggling today with rare diseases. The examples of Dr. Drew and countless other researchers, physicians, nurses, activists, and patients underscore the importance of bringing additional awareness to rare diseases.

Despite the many challenges, some progress has been made. More work needs to be done to bring attention to the needs of those who struggle with rare diseases. and to celebrate their courage. That's why Rep. Hudson and I are reintroducing this important resolution. Each year, many individuals with rare diseases and their loved ones celebrate Rare Disease Day to share their stories and educate communities of researchers, health professionals, governments, and community organizations about how rare diseases affect them.

More than 100 countries observe Rare Disease Day. Our resolution expresses support for the designation of the last day of this month as Rare Disease Day. Congress should recognize this work and improve our efforts to address the challenges facing the rare disease patient community.

Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join us in supporting Rare Disease Day's designation on the last day of February to better champion people with rare diseases. I urge the House to support this resolution.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Indiana State Representative for House District 92, Renee Pack. Prior to joining the Indiana General Assembly, she served in the United States Army for five years, where she trained and served as a behavioral specialist and was also certified in drug and alcohol counseling. Her training in the Army led her to a lifetime of service in our local schools, as a small business operator and now at the Indiana Statehouse.

Since being elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 2020, Renee Pack has led with courage and strength. She has become a champion for a more equal, and just environment for residents of her district and all Hoosiers. Her service in the Army has led her to where she is today, serving as the Ranking Member on the Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee. She also serves on the Committees on Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development, and Children and Human Affairs. She has invested her years in public service to uplift those in need, strengthen veteran services in Indiana, and advocate for equality under the law.

Her service and training in the Army still have a lasting impact on her public service today. Her collective experiences inspired her to author Indiana House Bill 1188, prohibiting lifetime limitations for Medicaid recipients receiving treatment for substance abuse and addiction.

Each month, our office recognizes women veterans who are often overlooked and underrepresented, especially women of color. African Americans have a long history serving our country, as the National Museum of African American History and Culture recognizes ``From the Revolutionary War to the War on Terror, African Americans have served in the United States military. In defending their country, they hoped to earn freedom and citizenship and contribute to a changed America where racial equality was possible.''

On this last day of Black History Month, I am proud to honor State Representative Renee Pack for her service to our country by giving her the Shelia Corcoran Hoosier Women Hero Award.

I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing State Representative and Hoosier Women Hero, Renee Pack.