Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 74th birthday of Eric L. Thompson, Sr. Born on April 3, 1951 in Chicago, Illinois, Eric has been a lifelong resident of Chicago and a beloved member of our community.

As a young man, Eric was inspired by the civil rights advocacy of his parents, who frequently worked with my father, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. to advance civil rights through Operation Rainbow PUSH.

Eric attended Augustana College and later went on to start his own businesses, T&T Food Service, and Eridor Food Service, Inc., named in honor of his sons, Eric and Dorian. Through his hard work and keen business skills, Eric has grown his businesses into the preeminent food service providers in the Chicago area.

In addition to being an accomplished businessman, Eric is also known for his friendly spirit and kindness. To know Eric is to know a friend. As Eric looks back on 74 wonderful years, I hope he is able to rest on his laurels and enjoy celebrating his accomplishments with his family and friends. I wish him many more years of good health.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating this momentous occasion.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Zaire Tobar, a vital member of the Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts boys' basketball team, the Eagles. This team achieved a historic victory, winning the 2024-2025 Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 2A State Championship with a decisive 52-41 win over Althoff Catholic High School on March 15, 2025.

This championship is more than just a win on the court. It is a profound testament to the resilience, determination, and unity of the Dyett High School community and the vibrant Bronzeville neighborhood. A decade ago, Dyett faced the threat of closure, but through powerful community advocacy and unwavering commitment, its doors remained open. Today, the Eagles' triumph, in which Zaire Tobar played a crucial role, symbolizes the incredible potential that flourishes when a community invests in its youth and its institutions.

Zaire Tobar, along with his teammates, demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline, and teamwork throughout their season, navigating challenges and competing at the highest level. His hard work and dedication were integral to the team's success, culminating in this well-deserved championship that brings immense pride and joy to his school, family, and the entire community.

I also extend my deepest gratitude to Head Coach Jamaal Gill, whose visionary leadership and guidance steered the team to this historic victory, and to Assistant Coaches Kimani Harris, Pierre Adams, and Nathan Townsen, Jr., whose mentorship was vital to the players' development.

Mr. Speaker, Zaire Tobar's contribution to the Dyett Eagles' journey from near closure to state champions is an inspiring narrative for us all. It underscores the critical importance of supporting our public schools and investing in programs that empower young people to achieve their fullest potential. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Zaire Tobar and the entire Dyett High School boys' basketball team on their momentous achievement and in honoring them for the inspiration they provide to communities across our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Moor's Brewing Company of Chicago, founded in the heart of our vibrant 1st Congressional District. I extend my sincerest congratulations to their team on their recent prestigious win at the Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream Brewer Experienceship competition.

Founded in 2021 by Damon Patton, Jamhal Johnson, and Anthony Bell, Moor's Brewing Company has quickly established itself as a leading craft brewery. Since its launch, it has expanded its reach into over 500 retailers nationwide, a remarkable feat that underscores its rapid success and growing influence in the brewing industry. This accomplishment is a testament to Moor's Brewing Company's dedication to craftsmanship, innovation, and community spirit. Their success not only brings honor to their establishment but also highlights the thriving entrepreneurial spirit and rich brewing tradition present in Chicago.

Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge Moor's Brewing Company's deep commitment to civic engagement and community upliftment. Their partnership with the Care Moor Foundation for Civic Engagement exemplifies their dedication to giving back and fostering positive change within our communities. It is truly inspiring to see a business not only excel in its craft but also actively contribute to the social fabric of our district. In fact the timing of this recognition is particularly poignant, as we also acknowledge the significance of June 18, 2025, which marks the Emancipation Ball. This event serves as a powerful reminder of our ongoing journey towards justice and equality, and the role that businesses and community organizations play in driving progress.

Moor's Brewing Company stands as a beacon of excellence. and their recent recognition by Samuel Adams is a well-deserved acknowledgement of their hard work, passion, and commitment to producing exceptional beer. They are a true asset to our local economy and a source of immense pride for the entire Chicagoland area.

I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Moor's Brewing Company for this significant achievement and wishing them continued success, both in brewing and in their vital community endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Aramis Brown, Jr., a vital member of the Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts boys' basketball team, the Eagles. This team achieved a historic victory, winning the 2024-2025 Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 2A State Championship with a decisive 52-41 win over Althoff Catholic High School on March 15, 2025.

This championship is more than just a win on the court. It is a profound testament to the resilience, determination, and unity of the Dyett High School community and the vibrant Bronzeville neighborhood.

A decade ago, Dyett faced the threat of closure, but through powerful community advocacy and unwavering commitment, its doors remained open.

Today, the Eagles' triumph, in which Aramis Brown, Jr. played a crucial role, symbolizes the incredible potential that flourishes when a community invests in its youth and its institutions.

Aramis Brown, Jr., along with his teammates, demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline, and teamwork throughout their season, navigating challenges and competing at the highest level. His hard work and dedication were integral to the team's success, culminating in this well-deserved championship that brings immense pride and joy to his school, family, and the entire community.

I also extend my deepest gratitude to Head Coach Jamaal Gill, whose visionary leadership and guidance steered the team to this historic victory, and to Assistant Coaches Kimani Harris, Pierre Adams, and Nathan Townsen, Jr., whose mentorship was vital to the players' development.

Aramis Brown, Jr.'s contribution to the Dyett Eagles' journey from near closure to state champions is an inspiring narrative for us all. It underscores the critical importance of supporting our public schools and investing in programs that empower young people to achieve their fullest potential.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Aramis Brown, Jr. and the entire Dyett High School boys' basketball team on their momentous achievement and in honoring them for the inspiration they provide to communities across our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Lois Jean Buckman--a pioneering telecommunications executive, beloved community leader, and lifelong advocate for mentorship, education, and empowerment.

Born on March 9, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, Ms. Buckman was the daughter of visionary entrepreneurs who helped anchor and uplift their community for over 70 years. Her parents were proprietors of local businesses and neighborhood properties--investments that weren't just about business, but about building opportunity, community, and legacy.

At the age of 19, Lois moved to Los Angeles, California, to begin a new chapter. She would go on to build an extraordinary 37-year career at GTE, later Verizon, beginning as the first African American woman hired as a cashier and rising to the position of regional director, overseeing operations across four states. She broke barriers utilizing an indomitable resolve and never forgot to lift others as she climbed. Her boldness--including proudly wearing traditional African attire to celebrate Black History Month in a space unaccustomed to such pride-- left a legacy of education and empowerment in the workplace.

Outside of corporate life, Ms. Buckman dedicated herself to community uplift. She served on the board of the Consortium of Information and Telecommunications Executives (CITE), helping to raise over 1.4 million dollars in scholarships for underserved students.

As a co-founder of Sisters Involved in Linking Knowledge (SILK), she helped create a powerful platform for youth and women in high-risk environments. SILK facilitated everything from STEM workshops and college panels to teen leadership conferences and volunteer programs that cultivated self-worth and future success. She also supported Sisters Involved in Nurturing (SATIN), an initiative focused on life skills and self-image development for young women transitioning into adulthood.

Ms. Buckman further served as president of The Regalettes for over 16 years. Founded in 1958, this organization has been rooted in service to the greater Los Angeles community for more than six decades. Under her leadership, The Regalettes awarded over 850,000 dollars in scholarships, hosted annual toy drives, and celebrated individuals who dedicated their lives to service and social impact.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me to celebrate Lois Jean Buckman as a woman of substance, vision and action. She has opened doors that were never meant to be closed again. Her courage, grace, and commitment to lifting others reflect the highest ideals of public service and private leadership.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary woman, Ms. Louella Avent, as she celebrates her 85th birthday. Though her official birthday was May 13, 1940, we joyously mark this milestone with a celebration on Saturday, June 7, at the Rose Room.

Born in Oxford, Mississippi, Ms. Avent was raised by dedicated farmers. For the past 65 years, Chicago has been her cherished second home. A lifelong learner, she graduated high school and continued her education at Loop College, now Harold Washington College. Her commitment to education continues even now as she embraces ``senior life.''

Ms. Avent`s professional life includes dedicated service to the City of Chicago and, most recently, as a greeter at Mark Realty. She's also certified by the Chicago Greater Food Depository and proudly identifies as a chef by trade.

Throughout her career, she has had the honor of meeting numerous political figures, a testament to her widespread connections and impact. For Ms. Avent, the proudest moments in her workplace have always revolved around ``just being able to help people.'' Her guiding principle, ``If I can help somebody along the way, then my living will not be in vain,'' perfectly encapsulates her loving and serving spirit.

Her dedication extends far beyond her professional roles. Ms. Avent is a profound woman of faith, having transitioned from Baptist to Pentecostal about 62 years ago. She emphasizes that serving the Lord is the core value guiding her life.

She is a true community worker, participant, and activist, known for organizing a multitude of events. Her leadership and keen ability to identify needs and act upon them are truly remarkable.

Ms. Avent has been a lifelong supporter of Operation PUSH, officially becoming a member in March 2025. Her commitment to civil rights and community empowerment is unwavering. Among her major milestones, she fondly recalls meeting the late Mayor Richard Daley, and the esteemed Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. and Mrs. Jacqueline Jackson.

Her journey through 85 years has been marked by both illnesses and losses, yet through it all, ``the joy of the Lord has been her strength.'' She is incredibly proud of her dutiful son, Caesar, an MBA graduate, who she credits as a true blessing in her life.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating a remarkable individual whose life exemplifies resilience, service, and profound love for humanity.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable life and profound contributions of Malik Todd Murray, a man who embodied the spirit of lifelong learning, athletic excellence, financial acumen, activism, mentorship and generous philanthropy rooted in faith. His life, marked by exceptional dignity, humility, and class, serves as an inspiration to us all.

Born in Chicago on September 16, 1974, Malik was the firstborn son of Cook County Circuit Court Judge Leonard Murray and the late Linda Diane Gray Murray. His mother, Linda, dedicated her career to education, serving as an assistant principal at Hyde Park Academy following a distinguished tenure as an award-winning history, sociology and psychology teacher.

Growing up in Chicago's South Shore community, Malik's early education at St. Philip Neri Elementary School saw him excel both as an altar boy and a straight-A student.

His passion for basketball ignited at the South Shore YMCA Youth Basketball Program under the guidance of his father, his first coach.

This early dedication paved the way for his admission to St. Ignatius College Prep where he graduated as the salutorian of his class.

At St. Ignatius College Prep, Malik's athletic talent shone brightly. In 1992, his leadership propelled the boys' basketball team to its first Regional Championship in two decades. That same year, he was named at the Chicago All Area Team, Chicago Catholic League Player of the Year, three-time Chicago Sun-Times Player of the Week and Chicago Tribune Athlete of the Week.

His commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics earned him a four-year basketball scholarship to DePaul University, where he played under Coach Joey Meyer. Malik secured an internship at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, and then graduated from DePaul's Driehaus College of Business. Malik spent 8 years at Bank One Brokerage and ultimately lead the European shift for international exchange traded products. Malik went on to further his education through obtaining an MBA in finance from DePaul's Kellstadt Graduate School of Business in 2004.

In December of 2004, Malik transitioned to Ariel Investments, where his talent and dedication led to a distinguished career culminating in his role as Senior Vice President, Head of Business Development, Institutional Marketing.

Throughout his career, Malik demonstrated a deep commitment to community engagement, serving on the boards of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, DePaul University and St. Ignatius College Prep, where he established scholarships and funds to promote diversity and inclusion. He also held leadership positions with the National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP) and contributed to the Ariel Community Academy school board.

His legacy of excellence and generosity will continue to inspire future generations.

At the young age of 50, Malik Todd Murray passed on April 19, 2025. He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Diane Gray Murray. He is survived by his longtime partner, Elizabeth; his father, Leonard; his sisters, Kai and Nubia (Brian) Davis; his brother, Kamau (Jennifer), and a wide circle of friends and family.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Malik Todd Murray as a testament to the power of hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable dedication and 25 years of pastoral service of Pastor Alton Bridges of Park Manor M.B. Church, located at 8328 S. Green St., Chicago, Illinois.

Born in Chicago on July 23, 1964, Pastor Bridges is a true native of our great city. He received his foundational education at Chicago Vocational School before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Electrical Engineering from DeVry Institute of Technology.

Pastor Bridges has been an integral part of the church community his entire life, ultimately answering a call to ministry.

Before his pastoral journey, he held a supervisory position at a company then known as Eleck Tech.

For a quarter of a century, Pastor Bridges has faithfully served his congregation and the wider community. His commitment extends far beyond the walls of his church. Annually, he provides crucial food services to the greater Auburn-Gresham, South Shore, and Ashburn Wright communities. He actively partners with local grammar schools, assisting families in need by garnering donations to provide them with clothing, funding, and food.

In 2020, Pastor Bridges initiated a ``Garden of Church,'' offering fresh vegetation to anyone in need--a testament to his innovative approach to community support. He actively collaborates with neighborhood stakeholders and is a vital part of the ``1st Ladies of Initiatives.''

His generosity also reaches beyond Chicago, as he consistently donates to national relief efforts, exemplified by his fundraising for families impacted by the California fires. Furthermore, he makes annual donations to support college-bound students, investing in the next generation.

Pastor Bridges is a devoted family man, supported by his wife, Phyllis Bridges, and their children, Symone, Markeeta, and Phillip.

Pastor Alton Bridges's unwavering commitment to his faith, his congregation, and the well-being of the Chicago community is truly commendable. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his 25 years of profound pastoral service and his enduring impact on the lives of countless individuals.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 40th Anniversary of Reverend Dr. Tellis Jerome Chapman, a truly dynamic individual and devoted Baptist Minister in the Greater Metropolitan Detroit area. I include in the Record the following Proclamation:

Whereas for 40 years, Reverend Dr. Tellis Jerome Chapman

has been a faithful and dedicated servant of God serving as

Pastor of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church, and is to be

commended for his steadfast Christian leadership over the

years;

Whereas, under the direction of the Holy Spirit, Reverend

Tellis Jerome Chapman was installed as Pastor of Galilee

Missionary Baptist Church in 1985 and throughout this time,

has fervently embraced the visions of the dynamic

trailblazers that preceded him as leaders of this great

church over the past 80 plus years;

Whereas, his outreach is not limited to Galilee Missionary

Baptist Church, but he also serves the community on a city,

county, state, national and international level and is

affectionately known as a ``Preaching Machine'';

Whereas, this dynamic and humble man has demonstrated

excellence in his calling as a ``Man of God'' and for that

reason, the 1st Congressional District of Illinois joins

Galilee Missionary Baptist Church Parishioners in thanking

him for all that he has done over the past 40 years, and look

forward to his continued spiritual guidance for many years to

come;

Resolved, that I, Jonathan Jackson, Representative of the

1st Congressional District in Illinois, hereby honor the 40th

Pastoral Anniversary of Reverend Dr. Tellis Jerome Chapman, I

ask that my colleagues stand today to celebrate the great

achievement of 40 years of servitude.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H.R. 260, and I thank my dear friend and honorable colleague, the Honorable Tim Burchett from the great State of Tennessee, for his remarks.

Mr. Speaker, oversight of U.S. policy toward Afghanistan does not have to be a partisan issue. We can all agree that we do not want American dollars sent to Afghanistan to be diverted to the Taliban. However, we must do so in a way that does not further alienate those partners already reeling from the Trump administration's foreign assistance freeze, which terminated nearly all humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, despite its compliance with U.S. law and policy.

Mr. Speaker, I am glad that Mr. Burchett was willing to work with Democrats to address many of our concerns about this legislation. I am also glad that this legislation contains important amendments offered by the Honorable Representative Kamlager-Dove to require additional reporting on the Haqqani Network, and Representative Keating to ensure that the strategy required by this bill prioritizes Afghan women and girls, as well as our Afghan allies. These amendments, adopted with bipartisan support during the markup, underscore that there remains considerable areas of bipartisan consensus in the House about our Afghanistan policy.

Unfortunately, there is not a consensus about what the Trump administration is doing on Afghanistan because they won't tell us. The State Department has ignored multiple bipartisan requests from this committee, dating back to February, for more information about the deals it is making with the Taliban and the Haqqani Network. Despite the fact that the Republican-led Congress enacted a law codifying the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts, Secretary Rubio is disabling the infrastructure supporting our Afghan allies and leaving Congress in the dark.

Likewise, Secretary Rubio has abolished the Special Envoy for Afghan Women and Girls, even as this administration lifted the Rewards for Justice bounties on the leaders of the Haqqani Network, a group with the blood of U.S. troops on their hands.

Mr. Speaker, we urgently need more information and assurances from the Trump administration about their priorities in Afghanistan and now Iran. I hope my colleagues on the other side will stand up for our committee's oversight responsibility. For now, we are glad to have the opportunity to work together on this legislation.

I thank, again, the Honorable Congressman Tim Burchett and all his great bipartisan advocates. I encourage my colleagues to join me in supporting

this measure. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close.

Mr. Speaker, our Afghan allies risked their lives for America. The United States must continue to do everything it can to support our partners on the ground providing assistance to Afghan civilians, including women and children, while also ensuring U.S. foreign assistance isn't being diverted into the hands of the Taliban.

There remain considerable areas of bipartisan consensus in Congress when it comes to our Afghanistan policy. This legislation will lean on that consensus to help bolster our committee's oversight power and take a step toward delivering to our Afghan allies the support that they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me and support this bill. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support my bill, H.R. 1998, Sanction Sea Pirates Act. Over the last few years, we have seen and also been reminded how fragile global supply chains can be and how the closing of narrow physical chokepoints can lead to shortages and inflation. More than 30 percent of global container trade passes through the Red Sea. If these waters cannot be navigated because of pirates and terrorism, Americans will continue to feel the costs here at home.

Unfortunately, we are now seeing exactly what we are trying to prevent. Ships traversing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden now face two major threats--and more mounting--from the Houthis, who continue to perpetrate piracy on the high seas, and from Somalian pirates, who are plundering and pillaging at rates unseen in a decade.

My bill imposes sanctions on any pirates around the world, blocking assets in or associated with the United States and denying them entry into our country. As an international leader in trade and security, the United States must seek to stop piracy around the world. This is America at its finest trying to help facilitate global trade. We must secure global waterways for the safety of ships, crew members, and critical ship-dependent supply chains.

Mr. Speaker, my bill is also a necessary step to ensure the development of African economies and generate greater prosperity through stability in Somalia. No country can be expected to grow and prosper while facing serious piracy threats. We cannot allow violent criminals and terrorists to continue stunting the economic development of Somalia and the surrounding region.

Beyond direct threats to the United States and Somalia, piracy is often linked to terrorism and crime. This bill reaffirms the United States' position as a global economic and security leader, and I thank my colleagues for helping to move this bill through the House. We strongly believe that this is a necessary step toward greater stability and safety for both the United States and East Africa. Attacks on maritime shipping endanger innocent lives, raise the cost of goods, and destabilize local communities in Yemen and the Horn of Africa.

For American national and economic security, we must pass this legislation and crack down on global piracy. I encourage all of my colleagues to join in supporting this legislation, and reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, to advance global security and economic prosperity, the United States must seek to stop piracy around the world.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Robert Shanahan, Sr., affectionately known as Bob, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, union man, and proud son of Illinois' working class.

Born May 2, 1956, in Chicago and 1 of 13 children raised by an ironworker father, Bob graduated from Lincoln-Way High School and spent the next 40 years serving as a Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen maintainer with Metra. His work was more than a job. It was a calling, keeping trains safe, protecting workers and travelers day in and day out.

Bob stood firmly for workers' rights, from his courageous stand during the 1979 Rock Island strike to his tenure as grievance committee member, trustee, and convention delegate. He believed that unions are essential to the American Dream and that every employee deserves dignity, a living wage, and safe working conditions.

Bob led by example: rising before dawn, always ready to work holidays or weekends, living his commitment to responsibility.

However, his greatest pride was his family: his loving wife, Susan; his children, Rob, Bridget, and Brian; and his fantastic grandchildren, Cameron, Rory, Logan, Morgan, Bernadette, and Susie.

As we honor Robert Shanahan, Sr., we celebrate a life rooted in safety, solidarity, love, and family. His legacy was built on hard work and quiet heroism. He saved lives, mentored workers, and uplifted his community. We continue to pray and thank God for his life. May his story remind us of the dignity of labor and the power of a life lived with purpose.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the impactful life and enduring contributions of Paulette Lawson, a dedicated healthcare professional and community activist whose tireless efforts continue to significantly uplift countless lives.

Born and raised in Chicago on June 6, 1952, Paulette Lawson grew up in a household that instilled the values of hard work and service. Her mother, Sheba Lawson, was a devoted domestic worker, and her father, Washington Lawson, Jr., contributed to the community through his work at Illinois Bell. These foundational experiences shaped the compassionate and resilient spirit that defines her life's journey.

Paulette Lawson pursued her passion for caring for others through education, attending Ashford University, where she earned her certification as a Nursing Assistant and later achieved the esteemed designation of a Licensed Practical Nurse. This progression from Certified Nursing Assistant to Licensed Practical Nurse stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to professional growth and excellence in healthcare. It was a proud moment that underscores her dedication to continuous learning and providing the highest quality of care.

For an impressive twenty-five years, Ms. Lawson served with distinction at Provident Hospital. Throughout her career there, she was not merely a hardworking nurse; she was a tireless patient advocate, consistently ensuring that those under her care received not only expert medical attention but also a voice and dignified treatment. Her unwavering commitment to her patients exemplifies the very best of the nursing profession.

Beyond her remarkable career in healthcare, Paulette Lawson has been a fervent advocate for social justice and community empowerment. She is an active and dedicated activist with Operation PUSH and Operation Breadbasket, organizations at the forefront of the fight for civil rights and economic justice. Her commitment is further demonstrated by her membership in the inspiring Rainbow Push Choir, where she lends her voice to messages of hope and unity.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the enduring accomplishments of Paulette Lawson, a true champion for both health and justice.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Matthew Wilson, a vital member of the Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts boys' basketball team, the Eagles. This team achieved a historic victory, winning the 2024-2025 Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 2A State Championship with a decisive 52-41 win over Althoff Catholic High School on March 15, 2025.

This championship is more than just a win on the court; it is a profound testament to the resilience, determination, and unity of the Dyett High School community and the vibrant Bronzeville neighborhood. A decade ago, Dyett faced the threat of closure, but through powerful community advocacy and unwavering commitment, its doors remained open. Today, the Eagles' triumph, in which Matthew Wilson played a crucial role, symbolizes the incredible potential that flourishes when a community invests in its youth and its institutions.

Matthew Wilson, along with his teammates, demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline, and teamwork throughout their season, navigating challenges and competing at the highest level. His hard work and dedication were integral to the team's success, culminating in this well-deserved championship that brings immense pride and joy to his school, family, and the entire community.

I also extend my deepest gratitude to Head Coach Jamaal GilI, II, whose visionary leadership and guidance steered the team to this historic victory, and to Assistant Coaches Kimani Harris, Pierre Adams, and Nathan Townsen, Jr., whose mentorship was vital to the players' development.

Mr. Speaker, Matthew Wilson's contribution to the Dyett Eagles' journey from near closure to state champions is an inspiring narrative for us all. It underscores the critical importance of supporting our public schools and investing in programs that empower young people to achieve their fullest potential. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Matthew Wilson and the entire Dyett High School boys' basketball team on their momentous achievement and in honoring them for the inspiration they provide to communities across our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate an extraordinary achievement by a remarkable young man from my district, Jayden McKinnon, a vital member of the Walter H. Dyett High School for the Arts boys' basketball team, the Eagles. This team achieved a historic victory, winning the 2024-2025 Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 2A State Championship with a decisive 52-41 win over Althoff Catholic High School on March 15, 2025.

This championship is more than just a win on the court; it is a profound testament to the resilience, determination, and unity of the Dyett High School community and the vibrant Bronzeville neighborhood.

A decade ago, Dyett faced the threat of closure, but through powerful community advocacy and unwavering commitment, its doors remained open. Today, the Eagles' triumph, in which Jayden McKinnon played a crucial role, symbolizes the incredible potential that flourishes when a community invests in its youth and its institutions.

Jayden McKinnon, along with his teammates, demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline, and teamwork throughout their season, navigating challenges and competing at the highest level. His hard work and dedication were integral to the team's success, culminating in this well-deserved championship that brings immense pride and joy to his school, family, and the entire community.

I also extend my deepest gratitude to Head Coach Jamaal Gill, whose visionary leadership and guidance steered the team to this historic victory, and to Assistant Coaches Kimani Harris, Pierre Adams, and Nathan Townsen, Jr., whose mentorship was vital to the players' development.

Jayden McKinnon's contribution to the Dyett Eagles' journey from near closure to state champions is an inspiring narrative for us all. It underscores the critical importance of supporting our public schools and investing in programs that empower young people to achieve their fullest potential.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Jayden McKinnon and the entire Dyett High School boys' basketball team on their momentous achievement and in honoring them for the inspiration they provide to communities across our Nation.