Frederica S. Wilson
Representative for Florida · Democratic · United States
“Speaker, I rise today to recognize Valley Grove Missionary Baptist Church for 50 years of service to the City of Miami, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in its honor: Whereas, Valley Grove Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1963 and has been a leader in our community spreading the Word of God; Whereas, Valley G…”
“Speaker, I rise today to recognize Valley Grove Missionary Baptist Church for 50 years of service to the City of Miami, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in its honor: Whereas, Valley Grove Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1963 and has been a leader in our community spreading the Word of God; Whereas, Valley G…”
“Speaker, I rise today, to pay tribute to and honor the life and legacy of the late Pastor James Frederick ``Rick'' Hines, Jr., a well-respected man of God, spiritual leader and mentor, loving son, husband and father, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Pastor Hines was a passionate and beloved you…”
“Speaker, I rise today, to pay tribute to and honor the life and legacy of the late Pastor James Frederick ``Rick'' Hines, Jr., a well-respected man of God, spiritual leader and mentor, loving son, husband and father, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Pastor Hines was a passionate and beloved you…”
“Williams has received numerous awards and accolades for his enthusiastic performance during his tenure including perfect attendance, achieving over 1,500 hours of sick leave, and a dedication to service award; Whereas, Mr.”
“Williams has received numerous awards and accolades for his enthusiastic performance during his tenure including perfect attendance, achieving over 1,500 hours of sick leave, and a dedication to service award; Whereas, Mr.”
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“Jr., is the founder and Senior Pastor of Koinonia Worship Center and Village, which started with six members and has grown to a congregation of 6,000; Whereas, Reverend Jones has committed his life to spreading the Word of God and built a ministry that meets the spiritual, physical, and social needs of the community; Whereas, Reverend Jones has reached beyond the sanctuary of Koinonia to nourish souls, feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, and uplift the poor and underserved through the church's outreach ministries; Whereas, Reverend Jones has established Youth ministries that prove guidance and mentorship to our most vulnerable and at-risk youth, and produce more college-bound students; Whereas, Reverend Jones' focus on economic empowerment is building stronger and thriving neighborhoods; Whereas, Reverend Jones was elected the first Mayor of West Park and serving his third term as Mayor of Broward County's 31st city; Whereas, Reverend Jones has received numerous award and accolades for his humanitarianism and public service work which included: the MLK Celebration Committee's Martin Luther King Faith Leadership Award, the Urban League of Broward County's Thurgood Marshall Advocacy Award, the NAACP's Criminal Justice Image Award, the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Volunteer Recognition Award, a Certificate of Recognition from the Broward Sheriffs Office's Feed the Needy Program, the 2006 Man of the Year recognition by the Broward County Business and Professional Women's Network; and now, therefore; be it [[Page E719]] Resolved, That I, Frederica S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E718-E719] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING REVEREND AND MAYOR ERIC H. JONES, JR. ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Reverend and Mayor Eric H. Jones, Jr., a true man of God and his community, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Reverend Eric H. Jones.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida honor the life and legacy of the late Pastor James Frederick ``Rick'' Hines, Jr. and commend him for his commitment and dedications to his family, his church and our community. ____________________”
“Speaker, I rise today, to pay tribute to and honor the life and legacy of the late Pastor James Frederick ``Rick'' Hines, Jr., a well-respected man of God, spiritual leader and mentor, loving son, husband and father, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Pastor Hines was a passionate and beloved youth pastor, at Koinonia Worship Center and Village, who was dedicated to spreading the Word of God; Whereas, Pastor Hines devoted countless hours to mentoring young people and often credited the church's success with its youth, practicing the teachings of one of his favorite Bible verses Proverbs 22:6: ``Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it;'' Whereas, Pastor Hines served his country dutifully as a soldier in the United States Army from 1977 to 1979; Whereas, Pastor Hines was a lifelong resident of South Florida who loved his community and worked to make it a better place to live; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E717] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF THE LATE PASTOR JAMES FREDERICK ``RICK'' HINES, JR. ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Ms. Venghan ``Winnie'' Tang for her years of commitment and faithful service to our community. ____________________”
“Tang's excellence in leadership, advocacy, non-profit work, and community service has been recognized by various organizations through awards, accomplishments, and appointments, including chairing the Asian-American Steering Committee, leading to the creation of the Asian-American Advisory Board in Miami-Dade County, being the first Chinese American woman to receive the Miami-Dade County Park & Recreation Department's in the Company of Women Award in 2002, receiving the Florida Minority Reinvestment Community Coalition's Minority Advocacy Award in 2006, and receiving the Inaugural Honors Award Saluting South Florida's 21st Century Educators by Miami Gardens Excellence in Education Council (MGEEC) in 2013; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Tang is a deeply committed activist who has devoted her professional career to promoting the interests and well-being of the Asian Pacific American community; Whereas, Ms. Tang has enriched the lives of countless South Floridians by administering after-school tutoring programs, encouraging voter registration and census participation, and advocating for immigration reform, legal and civil rights, homeless reform, healthcare, and women's affairs; Whereas, Ms. Tang was the first Asian American to serve on the Miami-Dade County Democratic Executive Committee, and has organized voter registration drives and ``Get Out the Vote'' campaigns in the Asian community; Whereas, Ms.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E717] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MS. VENGHAN ``WINNIE'' TANG ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Ms. Venghan ``Winnie'' Tang, a dedicated community advocate with a powerful voice who has made significant contributions to South Florida and our country, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Ms.”
“In hopes of capturing the crown, gaining greater visibility for her life saving initiative, and to become a mentor and role model for many young people, she works with other delegates and people. On Friday, July 13, 2013, Miss Watkins competed for the state title at the Miss Florida USA Pageant. Please join me in honoring Miss Aja Watkins for her commitment, dedication and service to our community. ____________________”
“She lived in the same home as Trayvon and was deeply affected by the tragic event, not only because of the bond they shared, but also because of the loss of someone so young and with so much undeveloped promise. Compelled to take action, Miss Watkins used her grief and personal family tragedy as inspiration to try to make a difference. As she works to bring urgent awareness to the crucial, critical importance of non- violence, self-protection and preservation. Miss Watkins also hopes to become a voice of hope and inspiration for adolescents and young adults who face the reality of violence on a daily basis. As she completes her education, Miss Watkins actively serves as a role model to many young people.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E716] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MISS AJA WATKINS ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Miss Aja Watkins, Miss Miami Gardens USA 2012, a tireless and enthusiastic advocate for non-violence and goodwill for all people, but particularly for the youth of our country. Miss Watkins' mission began in response to the tragic death of her cousin, Trayvon Martin, on February 26, 2012.”
“His determination and triumphs in a foreign country epitomize what the American dream is all about--you can accomplish anything through commitment and hard work. Please join me in honoring Councilman Philippe Derose, for his dedication, contributions and tireless service to our community. ____________________”
“Councilman Derose has also worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the youth in our community, through the Haitian-American Alliance Youth Foundation, the non-profit organization he serves as President of and founded. Councilman Derose has also sponsored and spearheaded numerous hurricane relief efforts over the years to help the people of Haiti. Born in Haiti, and one of nine children, Councilman Derose dreamed of coming to America in search of a better life. In 1974, he moved with his wife Marie to New York where he enrolled in the high school equivalency program, attended York College and obtained his bachelor's degree in psychology from California Coast University. Councilman Derose's life story should serve as an example for all.”
“In 1993, he was elected to serve as a councilman for the Village of El Portal, giving voice to the burgeoning Haitian-American community in South Florida. Seven years later, Councilman Derose was elected Mayor of the Village of El Portal. In 2003, he was appointed Councilman in the City of North Miami Beach, paving the way for other Haitian-Americans to enter the political arena in South Florida and across the country. Councilman Derose believed not only in building up communities through economic development but also through beautification as a [[Page E716]] way of encouraging residents to take pride and ownership in their neighborhoods. His passion for green space and trees resulted in numerous awards from the National Arbor Day Foundation for the City of North Miami Beach.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E715-E716] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING COUNCILMAN PHILIPPE DEROSE ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 21, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor retiring City of North Miami Beach Councilman Philippe Derose, a pioneer, a well-respected community leader, activist and public servant. Mr. Derose was the first Haitian-American to be elected to political office in Miami-Dade County.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, recognize and pay tribute to Tequila Janae Tekeysha Forshee, a precious angel with a big heart and who was deeply loved by her family, friends and classmates. ____________________”
“I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Tequila was a vibrant, fun loving and beautiful 12-year-old girl who loved to help others and dreamed of one day becoming a chef and a detective; Whereas, Tequila enjoyed mathematics and excelled in her studies at Brentwood Elementary School and looked forward to attending Miami Carol City Middle School; Whereas, Tequila's hard work as a student earned her a place on the Assistant Principal's Honor Roll and numerous awards such as the Language Arts Achievement Award, and the Mathematics Achievement Award; Whereas, Tequila was a member of the dance praise team at Gospel of Tabernacle and a water girl at Brentwood Park; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E712] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] PAYING TRIBUTE TO TEQUILA JANAE TEKEYSHA FORSHEE ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Tequila Janae Tekeysha Forshee.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 25th Congressional District of Florida, commend the Haitian American Historical Society for preserving Haitian history and fostering a resurgence of interest in Haitian culture among South Floridians. ____________________”
“Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize the grand reopening of the Haitian Historical Museum and Archives in North Miami, Florida and include in the Record a proclamation on commending the efforts of Haitian American Historical Society (HAHS): Whereas, the Haitian Historical Museum and Archives-- through artifact, paintings, photography and performances-- tells the story of Haiti's history and rich culture; Whereas, the Haitian Historical Museum and Archives documents and showcases the contributions of Haitians and Haitian descendants to South Florida, the United States and other parts of the world; Whereas, the Haitian Historical Museum and Archives serve to educate future generations of Haitian Americans about their heritage and build a connection to Haiti; Whereas, the Haitian Historical Museum and Archives serve to foster understanding, tolerance and cooperation between South Florida's diverse communities; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E711] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING THE HAITIAN AMERICAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr.”
“She was the oldest of six children, and after losing her father at a young age, she helped raise her siblings. Mrs. Clark Lyons is the mother of four: Leonard, Rosemary, Franklin, and Marvin (deceased). She has sixteen grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren. Ms. Clark Lyons has been an active member of Mt. Hermon A.M.E. Church for over fifty years. She enjoys cheering for the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Heat; her favorite sports teams. She also enjoys cooking Bahamian food, and her specialty is pigeon peas and rice. Please join me in honoring Mrs. Fannett Clark Lyons on this remarkable milestone, her 100th birthday. ____________________”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E710] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MRS. FANNETT CLARK LYONS ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my sincerest congratulations, and birthday wishes to Mrs. Fannett Clark Lyons, an outstanding citizen, wife, mother and friend who celebrated her 100th birthday. Mrs. Clark Lyons has lived an exemplary life of service to her family, her church and her community. Mrs. Clark Lyons was born in the Miami's Overtown neighborhood, on September 14, 1913.”
“Pastor Anderson earned a bachelor's degree from Jacksonville Theological Seminary; a Master of Theology Degree and Posthumous Doctoral Degree in Theology from Practical Christianity Institute of Evangelism (PCIE), School of Bible Theology. Please join me in honoring the late Pastor Dr. Annette Anderson, for her commitment, dedication and service to God, her congregation, her family and friends and our community. [[Page E710]] ____________________”
“She lived her life based on the teachings and lessons in the Bible, which also served as a guide to raising her family and working to improve our community and quality of life. Pastor Anderson never met a stranger, nor tired of helping those in need. Her unwavering faith in God, love for all people and words of wisdom are credited with bringing comfort to the suffering at their darkest hour and restoring their faith. As pastor and teacher of Light of Life Ministries, a weekly prayer and Bible study ministry, and assistant pastor of Breakthrough Deliverance and Healing Prayer Ministries, Incorporated, Pastor Anderson touched the lives of countless people. She did not believe in dwelling on the past and past circumstances but using life's struggles as steppingstones to strengthen one's faith in Jesus.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E709-E710] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LATE PASTOR, DR. ANNETTE ANDERSON ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Pastor Dr. Annette Anderson, a true servant of God, a beloved and respected spiritual leader, and a dedicated social activist in Miami Gardens, Florida. Pastor Annette Anderson devoted her life to serving God and spreading His Word.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the late Officer William J. Calhoun for his service to our country and our community, for his activism, and for his dedication to his family and friends. ____________________”
“Calhoun dutifully served and protected the citizens of the City of Miami and was one of the police department's first African-American dispatchers; Whereas, Officer Calhoun bravely served his country as a member of the United States Navy and the United States Army; Whereas, Officer Calhoun's valiant efforts lead to the restoration and preservation of the Black Police Precinct and Courthouse and its designation as a historical site in the City of Miami; Whereas, Officer Calhoun selflessly gave back to his community by serving as a board member for many Liberty City organizations such as the Martin Luther King Economic Development Corporation, the Belafonte Talcolcy Center, and the City of Miami Department of Code Enforcement; Whereas, Officer Calhoun was a devoted member of the New Way Fellowship Praise and Worship Center where he assisted in the security and the retirees' ministries; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E708] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING OFFICER WILLIAM J. CALHOUN ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Mr. William J. Calhoun one of the first African-American police dispatchers for the City of Miami Police Department, and dedicated community activist. I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Officer William J.”
“Arenas was a vibrant member of the Red Hatters and numerous other civic and social organizations; and now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Mrs. Maria H. Arenas for her years of service and dedication to Miami-Dade County Public Schools her community, and to her family. ____________________”
“Arenas was an enthusiastic educator and administrator in the Miami-Dade County Public School system for over thirty years until her retirement in summer of 2006; Whereas, Mrs. Arenas was a lifelong devotee to the pursuit of knowledge, earning her high school degree from Miami Northwestern High School in 1965, a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech and Theater Arts from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, a Master of Science degree in Educational Curriculum, and had, at the time of her passing, completed all of the required coursework toward earning a Doctoral degree in Education; Whereas, Mrs. Arenas travelled extensively around the world and allowed others to share her experiences through social media websites; Whereas, Mrs.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E707] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MRS. MARIA H. ARENAS ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Mrs. Maria H. Arenas, beloved educator, wife and mother who passed away on June 21, 2013. I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Mrs.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend Mrs. Agenoria Lucille Spearman Paschal, for her leadership and outstanding contributions to education in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. and for her selfless, unwavering commitment and dedication to our community. ____________________”
“Paschal was instrumental in the writing of an educational proposal that led to the opening of the first segregated elementary school in the Miami-Dade County Public School System, initially called Primary School C and later named Thena Crowder Elementary School; Whereas, Mrs. Paschal opened Olinda Elementary School in Liberty City, served as its first principal and successfully ran its Triple-T Program, a collaboration between Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the University of Miami that provided training and further education for teachers and paraprofessionals, many of whom went on to become assistant principals, principals and directors who also made outstanding contributions to education; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”
“Paschal served Miami-Dade County Public Schools and her community for over 40 years, inspiring thousands of students and developing programs that resulted in groundbreaking changes and improvements within the Miami- Dade County Public School System, for which she was honored with numerous awards and national recognition; Whereas. Mrs. Paschal held the positions of teacher, assistant principal, principal, and director, and implemented programs including the Mobile Reading Clinic, Non-Graded Grouping, Magic Circle Awareness and extended Public Library Services; Whereas, Mrs.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E706] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MRS. AGENORIA LUCILLE SPEARMAN PASCHAL ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and honor retired educator, Mrs. Agenoria Lucille Spearman Paschal, a legendary pioneer in education in Miami-Dade County Public Schools, a visionary way ahead of her time, a dedicated community servant, and an advocate for students, teachers, parents and our schools, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Mrs.”
“Patterson was an advocate for city, county and state employees and served as an international staff representative for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFL-CIO) for seven years; Whereas, Mr. Patterson was a faithful and active member of the King of Hearts and the Kiwanis Club, Greater Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and Universal Truth Center; and now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, commend the late Mr. Clarance ``Pat'' Patterson for his unwavering commitment and dedication to his family, his church, and our community. ____________________”
“Patterson's career as a Waste Management expert, City Manager and Union Representative spanned sixty years; Whereas, Mr. Patterson held the position of Superintendent of the Department of Solid Waste for Metropolitan Dade County, was appointed the first Black director for the City of Miami's Solid Waste Department and held the position of Assistant Manager for the city of Miami; Whereas, Mr. Patterson also served as City Manager for the cities of North Miami and Opa locka; Assistant City Manager of Miami Springs, Director of Solid Waste and Public Works; and Director of Solid Waste and Public Works for the city of South Miami; Whereas, Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E705] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING MR. CLARANCE ``PAT'' PATTERSON ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, I rise today to recognize and honor the late Mr. Clarance ``Pat'' Patterson, a devoted public servant, union representative, husband, father, and friend, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Mr.”
“I encourage all residents to celebrate the rich culture of the Caribbean during National Caribbean-American Heritage Month. ____________________”
“history, and the influence of Caribbean people and their descendants on American culture; Whereas, South Florida is home to many Caribbean-Americans who make up a large percent of the population; Whereas, Caribbean-Americans have played a major and notable role in the growth and development of South Florida, from holding public office, prominent positions in education and religion, to owning successful businesses and being vocal community activists; and now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, and who also has Caribbean roots, am proud to recognize the contributions of Caribbean-Americans to South Florida and to our country.”
“I include in the Record the following proclamation in honor of National Caribbean Heritage Month: Whereas, the President of the United States of America, Barack Obama, has issued the annual proclamation in 2013 recognizing June as National Caribbean-American Heritage Month; Whereas, National Caribbean-American Heritage Month recognizes the significance [[Page E705]] of Caribbean people in U.S.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E704-E705] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING NATIONAL CARIBBEAN HERITAGE MONTH ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Caribbean-Americans to South Florida and the Nation through the arts and humanities, business, science and engineering, activism, and military leadership as we celebrate the 8th anniversary of National Caribbean-American Heritage Month.”
“Braynon used his dental skills to meet the needs of our community, served as a member of the Dental Society providing leadership and guidance to new generations of dental professionals, and was a member of numerous civic and community organizations dedicated to the betterment of the quality of life for South Floridians; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida am proud to recognize and honor Dr. Edward J. Braynon, Jr. for his unwavering commitment to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., community service, our youth, and his profession. [[Page E704]] ____________________”
“Braynon as Grand Basileus of Sigma Alpha Chapter played a key role in a massive ``Get Out The Vote,'' initiative where Omega chapters around the country were actively involved and helped win Jimmy Carter the presidency with the largest black vote in history and landed Dr. Braynon an invitation along with several other Black leaders to a ``White House Luncheon''; Whereas, Dr. Braynon touched and impacted the lives of countless young men as a mentor with the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project and won the admiration and respect of our community for his activism and community service; Whereas, Dr.”
“for sixty-eight years and has served as Basileus of Sigma Alpha Chapter, Florida's State Representative, First Vice Seventh Representative (Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi), Seventh District Representative, First Vice Grand Basileus, and Grand Basileus; Whereas, Dr, Braynon's leadership, vision and integrity have played a vital role in building, binding and strengthening Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and Sigma Alpha Chapter. He is credited with remaining steadfast to enhancing and promoting the organization's principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift; Whereas, Dr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E703-E704] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMENDING AND HONORING DR. EDWARD J. BRAYNON, JR. ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 20, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, to commend and honor Dr. Edward J. Braynon, Jr., a dedicated community-servant, civil rights activist, role model, and mentor, and I include in the Record the following proclamation in his honor: Whereas, Dr. Braynon has been a loyal and faithful member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.”
“Wilson, a member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, recognize and pay tribute to Tequila Janae Tekeysha Forshee, a precious angel with a big heart and who was deeply loved by her family, friends and classmates. ____________________”
“I include in the Record the following proclamation in her honor: Whereas, Tequila was a vibrant, fun loving and beautiful 12-year-old girl who loved to help others and dreamed of one day becoming a chef and a detective; Whereas, Tequila enjoyed mathematics and excelled in her studies at Brentwood Elementary School and looked forward to attending Miami Carol City Middle School; Whereas, Tequila's hard work as a student earned her a place on the Assistant Principal's Honor Roll and numerous awards such as the Language Arts Achievement Award, and the Mathematics Achievement Award; Whereas, Tequila was a member of the dance praise team at Gospel of Tabernacle and a water girl at Brentwood Park; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S.”