Congresswoman Johnson Leads Congressional Delegation In Egypt

Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri had talks Thursday with a US congressional delegation over the developments in the Middle East and Egypt's stance towards the Palestinian issue and Syrian crisis.

Talks also tackled the situation in Iraq and Libya, terrorism and relations between Egypt and the US, said Foreign Ministry Spokesman Badr Abdel Atti.

The delegation, led by Eddie Bernice Johnson (Texas), includes four congressmen of African origin and their aides.

Shoukri reviewed Egypt's initiative over the Libyan crisis that was floated at the ministerial meeting of Libya's neighbors in Cairo lately as well as efforts to form a national government in Iraq, the spokesman said.

The two sides underlined the importance of boosting US-Egyptian efforts against terrorism.

The US delegation lauded the role played by Egypt to achieve stability and development in the region, underlining the importance of promoting Egyptian-US relations to serve interests of both countries.

Source: www.allafrica.com

Congresswoman Johnson Marks Women's Equality Day And The Passage Of The 19th Amendment

Congresswoman Johnson recently celebrated the anniversary of the passage of the 19th amendment giving women the right to vote in America.

"Today is Women’s Equality Day! Today we commemorate the 1920 passage of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, granting women the right to vote. The observance of this day is important because it calls attention to women’s continuing efforts toward full equality." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Is Honored By North Texas Toll Authority For Her Leadership In Congress On Transportation Issues

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was honored in Plano, Texas by the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA). The NTTA honored Congresswoman Johnson with the Drive to Excellence Award for  the “creation of a robust and thriving transportation network serving one of the fastest growing regions in the country.”   

“ I want to thank the NTTA for this great honor. I have spent my career in the Congress securing as many federal resources as possible for the improvement of Texas’ infrastructure and highways,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “North Texas is a transportation hub for the entire country.  We have so many goods flowing through our state, and so many people who are dependent on our highways and tollways to get their services to destinations around the country. We must continue to invest in Texas tollways to ensure that we remain a thriving transportation hub for generations to come.”

Congresswoman Johnson is currently the highest ranking Texan on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.  She has served on the Committee for 22 years and has directed billions of dollars of federal investment into Texas infrastructure projects.

The chairman of the NTTA praised Congresswoman Johnson’s forward thinking and commitment to improving the transportation sector.  “North Texas has a unique and enviable position in Texas transportation – projects are getting done and people are moving here.  These accomplishments are made possible by forward-thinking individuals and organizations who find solutions to promote transportation as an economic driver and quality of life enterprise for all North Texans,” said Chairman Kenneth Barr.

The North Texas Tollway Authority is a political subdivision of the state of Texas that is authorized to acquire, construct, maintain, repair and operate turnpike projects in the North Texas region. NTTA serves Collin, Dallas, Denton, Tarrant and Johnson counties; it owns and operates the Dallas North Tollway, President George Bush Turnpike, Sam Rayburn Tollway, Addison Airport Toll Tunnel, Lewisville Lake Toll Bridge, the Mountain Creek Lake Bridge and the Chisholm Trail Parkway.

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts 8th Annual Dallas Youth Summit & Diversity Dialogue

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted dozens of Dallas-area high school students for the 8th annual Youth Summit and Diversity Dialogue held at the Southern Methodist University’s Owens Art Center. The Youth and Diversity Summit was designed to bring about greater understanding and working relationships between young people of different faiths, ethnicities, and countries of origin in the Dallas area.

“It is important that as a society we celebrate diversity,” Congresswoman Johnson said to the students. “In our city, we have young people from all over the world who contribute to bringing a culture of peace and brotherhood. Together, we can share our cultural differences and make our world a better place for all people.”

Farrukh Valliani, president of the Aga Khan Council for the Central United States, addressed the students, highlighting that cultural diversity was crucial in today’s world. “Bringing people together for dialogue will create a more peaceful world,” he said. The Aga Khan Council worked in conjunction with Congresswoman Johnson’s office to make this year’s event happen.

Dr. Lori White, the Vice President for Student Affairs at SMU spoke to the students, noting that they were the future leaders of the world. “It is important that different people have respect for each other, and one another’s cultures,” she said. “The world will need your talents.”

During the summit students participated in four regional workshops exploring the cultures of different parts of the world. The workshops were led by experts in the fields of international relations and education. Tim Livingston of Dallas’ Channel 5 news served as the summit’s master of ceremonies.

Congresswoman Johnson Remembers Congressman Mickey Leland On The 25th Anniversary Of His Death

“It is hard to believe that it was 25 years ago today that my friend and mentor, Mickey Leland, passed away. He was a steadfast and caring leader from whom I learned so much, He made a lasting impact on Congress that has helped shaped our country’s focus to aid parts of the world that were suffering from extreme hunger. His legacy can be felt today through young leaders that are being trained in the Mickey Leland International Hunger Fellows Program at the Congressional Hunger Center in the nation’s capital. He died as he lived; bringing attention to the plight of refugees in a part of the world that sorely needed our help.

Congressman Mickey Leland was a transformative leader, not only in Texas but throughout the world. He began his political career by being elected to the Texas State Legislature from the city of Houston. Soon after his term began, Congressman Leland traveled to Africa and found the calling to which he would dedicate his life, ending hunger throughout the world.

Congressman Leland was elected to Congress in 1978 to represent the 18th Congressional District of Texas, filling the seat vacated by Congresswoman Barbara Jordan when she retired. He was a progressive leader that twice chaired the Congressional Black Caucus.  He also took his life’s mission to the halls of Congress where he helped to form the House Select Committee on World Hunger in 1984.

With the support of anti-hunger organizations, Congressman Leland was able to overcome opposition in the House of Representatives that argued that the Select Committee would be a waste of money, or would infringe upon the duties of existing committees. 

The Select Committee generated awareness within Congress regarding national and international hunger, and prompted a bipartisan effort to find solutions to end hunger in the U.S. and around the world. Congressman Leland also led numerous humanitarian trips with his Congressional colleagues, allowing them to witness firsthand the hunger crisis that was plaguing Sub-Saharan Africa. Due to his efforts, Congressman Leland was frequently called the “conscience of the House” by colleagues.

Congressman Leland made a lasting impact that can be felt today through the Congressional Hunger Center.  Former Democratic Congressman Tony Hall, a close friend of Congressman Leland and former chair of the House Select Committee on Hunger, joined Republican Representative Bill Emerson to form the bi-partisan Congressional Hunger Center in 1993. Soon after its formation, the Congressional Hunger Center established the Mickey Leland International Hunger Fellows Program to serve as a living legacy to Congressman Leland and his world-changing work to end hunger. The Mickey Leland International Hunger Fellows Program trains emerging leaders during a two-year period to eradicate hunger worldwide. " - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Celebrates The 49th Anniversary Of The Voting Rights Act

"Today is the 49th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, the landmark federal legislation signed in to law by President Lyndon B. Johnson that prohibits racial discrimination in voting. The Voting Rights Act is the perpetuation of our democracy. We are a great country because all of our citizens have the right to exercise the right to vote without fear of intimidation. The right to vote is at the very core of our democracy. As American citizens, we possess the inalienable right to cast our vote, and to do so without the threat of voter intimidation." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Joins Her Colleagues Urging Peace In South Sudan

House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) and Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-13) led a letter sent to Secretary Kerry today, signed by seven other House Democrats, thanking him for his efforts to achieve a peaceful settlement between South Sudanese President Kiir and Vice President Machar and updating him on their recent meeting with diplomats from the region.  

The letter was signed by Whip Hoyer and Reps. Barbara Lee, Karen Bass (CA-37), Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30), Sheila Jackson-Lee (TX-18), Gregory Meeks (NY-5), Jim Moran (VA-8), Donald Payne Jr. (NJ-10), and Chris Van Hollen (MD-8). 

"We are writing to apprise you of a meeting we recently hosted with diplomats from Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, and South Sudan on the crisis in South Sudan," the letter states. "One message was clear from the meeting: the role of the United States is critical in bringing the parties together and reaching any peace deal."

The letter continues: "The crisis in South Sudan continues to spiral downwards.  Just last month we heard reports of patients being executed in hospitals, among other atrocities.  More than one million people have been displaced from their homes since December, and the current rainy season will further exacerbate the misery inflicted upon South Sudan's civilian population. This misery may likely include famine in parts of South Sudan.  The role of the United States has never been more critical, and we look forward to working with you to bring the full weight of the United States to bear in re-establishing South Sudan on a path toward stability and prosperity for its people and the region."

July 18, 2014

The Honorable John Kerry Secretary of State U.S. Department of State 2201 C Street NW Washington, DC 20515

Dear Mr. Secretary:

We are writing to apprise you of a meeting we recently hosted with diplomats from Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, and South Sudan on the crisis in South Sudan.  The purpose of the gathering was to gain the insights of regional players on the ongoing conflict and to affirm specific actions these countries can take to encourage both sides to stop fighting, such as freezing the assets of those providing material support to combatants.

One message was clear from the meeting: the role of the United States is critical in bringing the parties together and reaching any peace deal.  Several ambassadors singled out your contribution in maintaining pressure on President Kiir and former Vice President Machar to stay at the negotiating table and implement agreements to which they have committed.

We wholeheartedly agree with their praise and urge you to continue your efforts to facilitate the parties committing to a long-term agreement that will end the current hostilities.  We also commend the Department on its July 10th announcement regarding $22 million in additional humanitarian assistance for refugees and internally displaced persons in South Sudan and the region.  The crisis in South Sudan continues to spiral downwards.  Just last month we heard reports of patients being executed in hospitals, among other atrocities.  More than one million people have been displaced from their homes since December, and the current rainy season will further exacerbate the misery inflicted upon South Sudan's civilian population. This misery may likely include famine in parts of South Sudan.  The role of the United States has never been more critical, and we look forward to working with you to bring the full weight of the United States to bear in re-establishing South Sudan on a path toward stability and prosperity for its people and the region.

Recently, Assistant Secretary Anne C. Richard announced nearly $22 million in additional humanitarian assistance for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in South Sudan and South Sudanese refugees in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda. With this latest funding, the United States is providing more than $456 million in humanitarian assistance in fiscal year 2014 to refugees, IDPs, and other conflict-affected populations impacted by the crisis in South Sudan. Since the outbreak of the current crisis, more than 400,000 refugees have fled from South Sudan, seeking refuge in Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, and Sudan. Hundreds continue to flee the country daily, and more than one million South Sudanese remain internally displaced.

This latest U.S. contribution will allow both international and non-governmental organizations to provide refugees and IDPs with basic life support such as access to clean water; food, health care, and essential household items; employment training; gender-based violence prevention; and programs for child protection, including efforts to restore family links severed as a result of displacement.

The United States strongly supports the efforts of humanitarian organizations to meet needs in South Sudan. This aid can only be effective if the Government of South Sudan, opposition forces, and all other parties to the conflict stop fighting and remove obstacles to the delivery of life-saving assistance. It is crucial that President Salva Kiir and former Vice President Riek Machar implement their May 9 agreement to end the violence and allow immediate, full and unconditional access for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan and humanitarian organizations to reach those in need.

Sincerely,

STENY H. HOYER BARBARA LEE KAREN BASS EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON SHEILA JACKSON-LEE GREGORY MEEKS JIM MORAN DONALD PAYNE JR. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

Source: National Journal

Congresswoman Johnson Leads Briefing On Institutions For Mental Diseases Exclusion To Medicaid

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and Congressman Tim Murphy, in conjunction with the Congressional Homelessness Caucus and hosted by the Treatment Advocacy Center, led a congressional briefing on the Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMD) Exclusion to Medicaid.  

“The IMD exclusion has inadvertently caused our jails and prisons to become warehouses for the severely mentally ill,” Congresswoman Johnson said to the gathered crowd. “Unfortunately, the consequences of non-treatment are visible in our communities. People with untreated psychiatric illness now make up one-third of our estimated 600,000 homeless population; and in 2012, there were an estimated 356,268 inmates with severe mental illness in prisons and jails across the nation. Patients with mental illness need increased access to psychiatric beds to have a real chance of recovery. They don’t need to be left out on the street or incarcerated, because their illness is never treated. We must work to eliminate barriers to better mental health treatment for our underserved minority communities.”

The briefing was moderated by Doris Fuller, the Executive Director of the Treatment Advocacy Center.  Attendees engaged in a fruitful discussion with leading experts in the mental health field. The gathered professionals and lawmakers were told of the different effects of the IMD exclusion by panelists: Bob Davison, Executive Director of the Mental Health Association of Essex County, NJ; Dr. Ray Patterson, a Prince George’s County Psychiatrist; Steve Baron, Director of the District of Columbia Department of Behavioral Health; and Bill Bailey, President of the Cenikor Foundation.

Congresswoman Johnson And House Committee On Science, Space & Technology Hold Live Downlink With Astronauts Aboard International Space Station

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology hosted a live communications "downlink" with the two U.S. astronauts currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS), current ISS Commander Dr. Steve Swanson and Commander (USN) Reid Wiseman.

Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) said in her opening statement, "This past weekend marked the 45th anniversary of the first humans landing on the Moon.  It was a bold achievement, as was the more recent assembly of the International Space Station.  The success of both of these ventures depended on the dedication and bravery of past and present members of the astronaut corps in spite of the risks they willingly face in the name of science and exploration.  I know that all Members join me in saluting them. While the road to its completion was a long one, the ISS stands as one of the engineering marvels of the modern age, and a testament to American ingenuity and perseverance." 

Members had the opportunity to speak with the astronauts for about twenty minutes.  They covered a number of topics, including those pertinent to policy and those lighter in nature.  The policy related topics dealt with how the ISS deals with orbital debris; what work the astronauts are doing on the ISS that will enable missions to take us beyond low-earth orbit and specifically to Mars; how their work helps the U.S. maintain leadership in science and technology and how it inspires young people to enter STEM fields; and why the U.S. needs to support the ISS. 

Dr. Swanson said, "Again, it goes back to what do we provide for the taxpayer? One, we provide research and development. That's what we get out of this. We get new products, new ideas, new science, and new research which always help the country in the future. And that creates new companies which helps the economy. We also inspire a new generation which hopefully gets them to be productive and help out and make our country stronger. And, we are explorers, which helps the whole human race."

Members also asked the astronauts a number of questions provided by children in their Districts including if anyone has had a birthday in space and how it was celebrated; what they pack in their suitcases; their favorite space foods; if they think we will find life in space; what a student needs to do in order to become an astronaut; and what inspired them to become astronauts.

Commander Wiseman described his inspiration, "I think back to my childhood when the space shuttle was just being developed and launched back in 1981. I was around six years old at the time, and I definitely remember a 747 flying over Maryland when I was in Towson with my parents. We had gone up to the top of a hill for the simple act of watching a space shuttle fly over on the back of a 747 as they were transporting it and that image is burned into my mind, and that probably started the course that I was on to become not only a Navy pilot, a test pilot, and then an astronaut. So, to me, we never know, that little thing that's going to spark the imagination of a child's mind and for me it was a simple airplane with a space shuttle flying--or, wait, that's not simple--but it was that simple act of being with my parents, and that was what sparked my imagination. So, as much as we can from up here and at NASA on the ground, we reach out to kids and just expose them to this world, this STEM world that's in motion. I think you never know when you're going to spark their imagination and I'm sure that we're doing it every day."

Ms. Johnson also expressed her hope that the Committee will hold a formal hearing in order to further examine the International Space Station, its utilization in support of exploration and basic and applied research, and the plan to extend the life of the ISS until 2024.

Source: www.spaceref.com

Congresswoman Johnson Comments On Court Rulings On Affordable Care Act's Premium Tax Credits

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement on the rulings on the Affordable Care Act’s premium tax credits from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit, and the U.S Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit:

“Today’s D.C. Circuit Court’s ruling that subsidies and tax credits under the Affordable Care Act are only available to qualifying enrollees who accessed health insurance coverage through a state-run exchange creates uncertainty for the tens of thousands Texans who have been able to receive healthcare coverage under the Affordable Care Act through the federal health insurance marketplace. This decision, if upheld, proves to be another example of the importance of expanding Medicaid coverage in the state of Texas and highlights the need to create a state exchange,” said Congresswoman Johnson as she reviewed the D.C. Circuit’s ruling.

The Congresswoman was confident that the more prudent decision by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, which held that subsidies were permissible in either state- or federally-run exchanges, would be upheld. She noted that: “The unanimous decision by the 4^th Circuit Court reflects the true legislative intent behind the law, which is to end discriminatory practices and enable millions of Americans to access affordable health care” said Congresswoman Johnson.  “I am glad that this court acted to protect the right to affordable healthcare for citizens of every state, even in those instances where the state failed to do so.”

Congresswoman Johnson Joins CSPAN's Washington Journal To Discuss Immigration And Highway Trust Fund

Congresswoman Johnson recently joined CSPAN's Washington Journal and spoke about the impact of the influx of unaccompanied immigrant children from Central America on her state and the nation. She discussed the bipartisan, bicameral bill that two fellow Texans were working on that would allow these children to be sent back to their countries of origin, and President Obama’s $3.7 billion request to deal with the situation. Other topics included the House-passed deal to fund the Highway Trust Fund.

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Congresswoman Johnson Leads Bicameral Effort To Resolve International Adoption Crisis

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson led the House and Senate in a bipartisan effort to involve the Obama administration in more than 900 adoption cases that are currently suspended by the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).  Congresswoman Johnson, along with House colleagues, Michelle Bachmann (R-MN), Collin Peterson (D-MN), Trent Franks (R-AZ), and Senators Mary Landrieu (D-LA) and James Inhofe (R-OK), have sent President Obama a letter detailing this crisis and urging the President to intervene directly with the DRC.

“We must do everything we can to unite these children with their adopted families,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “While many American families have completed all of the necessary legal processes, they are still unnecessarily separated from their adopted children. The decision by the DRC is devastating to the American families and the children, many in poor living conditions and medically fragile, while stuck in the DRC.”

In September 2013, the DRC suspended the issuance of exit permits for children adopted by any foreign parents, reportedly due to concerns about suspected malfeasance in the local DRC adoption process and lack of information about the well-being of adopted children after they arrived in their new homes. In advance of the first ever U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in August, the letter urges President Obama to use this event and the time leading up to it as an opportunity to press DRC President Kabila for a just and expeditious resolution for these children and their American families.

Congresswoman Johnson Honored By Conference Of Minority Transportation Officials

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson was honored by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) for her years of work to improve transportation nationwide.  During this third annual “Women Who Move the Nation Awards” ceremony, she was recognized as the “United States Legislator Honoree.”  The event brought hundreds of minority transportation officials together to discuss the future of  the transportation industry in this country and what COMTO can do to ensure maximum participation in the transportation industry for minority individuals.

“The movement of goods and services is the lifeblood of this country.  It is so vital that we have all the brightest minds and hardest workers at the table to help push the transportation industry forward,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “I am doing everything I can to make sure America regains its innovation edge in transportation.”

COMTO was founded in 1971 on the campus of Howard University to provide a forum for senior-level minority professionals in the transportation industry. The organization encompasses individuals, organizations, transportation agencies, and non-profits that represent every facet of the transportation sector with chapters all over the country.   The “Women Who Move the Nation Awards” was moderated by MSNBC’s Karen Finney and featured a keynote address by Rev. Jesse Jackson.    

Congresswoman Johnson Meets With President Obama To Discuss Border Crisis

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson met with President Barack Obama and a group of local elected and religious leaders to discuss the recent humanitarian crisis spurred by the influx of more than 52,000 unaccompanied children along the border during the President’s visit to Dallas today. Congresswoman Johnson offered the following statement after leaving her meeting with the President:

“I want to thank President Obama for taking the time to address this pressing issue with us.  We all had a very productive conversation with the President regarding this recent increase of unaccompanied children crossing our southwestern border.  He has assured us that he is concentrating the full power of his Administration behind finding the correct solution for this growing humanitarian crisis.

President Obama is in constant communication with authorities on the ground along the entire border and understands the gravity of this situation.  He has asked us in Congress to work with him by approving emergency aid to deal with this mass migration and its effects.  I applaud Dallas leaders and the wonderful citizens from my district who have responded compassionately to the vulnerability of these unaccompanied children and recognized the urgent need to provide safety, food and shelter to these children to combat the dangers of wide-spread physical and sexual exploitation of children from these countries.  I look forward to working with the president and city leaders as we join forces to ensure these children are treated humanely while they are in within our borders while simultaneously seeking a permanent solution that aims to reunite these children with their families while still respecting our laws.”

Congresswoman Johnson Marks Anniversary Of The Ratification Of The 14th Amendment

"Today marks the 146^th anniversary of the ratification of the Fourteenth Amendment, which reconstituted the fabric of American life and law following the Civil War. The Fourteenth Amendment extended the cloak of citizenship to former slaves and expanded equal protection under the law, not only to African Americans, but to all persons born or naturalized in the United States. Of the three reconstructive amendments following the Civil War, the Fourteenth is often the most echoed due to the wide range of liberties it protects. To African Americans the Fourteenth Amendment is a beacon of hope stemming from the most reflective and significant constitutional moments of our American history. To our neighbors who risk their lives and freedom to stand on American soil, the bright light and brilliance of the American dream continues to draw those in search of liberty, justice and equality. I remain convinced that, as was true in 1868, American citizens will denounce political contradictions that grant liberty and justice to all but the poor and will compel Congress to act so that new constitutional principles can emerge that will meet the needs of our ever-changing society." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Discusses The VA Scandal On MSNBC's The Reid Report

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Congresswoman Johnson Marks 50th Anniversary Of Civil Rights Act of 1964

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson recognized the 50th anniversary of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964.  President Lyndon Johnson signed this historic law, the most sweeping civil rights legislation since Reconstruction, on July 2, 1964.  

“It could be argued that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is the most significant law in this nation’s history – by finally banning discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin,” Congresswoman Johnson said.  “This 50th anniversary is a time to remember the debt all of us owe to the courageous leaders of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s – many of whom were beaten and some of whom died in their fight for justice.  Their struggles and efforts culminated in the enactment of the Civil Rights Act.”

The landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 helped bring an end to the Jim Crow era – banning discrimination in public places.  Before the enactment of the Civil Rights Act, many public facilities in regions of the country were still segregated.  The Act also banned discrimination in employment.  In addition, it provided a long-awaited enforcement mechanism for the integration of schools.

“Although the Civil Rights Act of 1964 represented enormous progress, more progress is still needed,” Congresswoman Johnson stated.  “For example, there could be no better way to mark this 50th anniversary than for Congress to pass a revised, renewed, and strengthened Voting Rights Act.”

The Voting Rights Act has been responsible for much of the progress made in recent decades to outlaw discriminatory voting practices.  And yet, unfortunately, in June 2013, in a 5-4 decision in Shelby County v Holder, the Supreme Court significantly weakened the Act by invalidating one of its key sections.  In response, Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) has introduced a bipartisan compromise bill – the Voting Rights Amendment Act – which provides an effective, modern, flexible and forward-looking Voting Rights Act for today. 

“I call upon Members on both sides of the aisle to continue the bipartisan tradition of supporting civil rights and pass the Voting Rights Amendment Act,” Congresswoman Johnson concluded.  “This action would be in the spirit of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and would continue to help America to better live up to our creed that all individuals are created equal.”

Congresswoman Johnson Calls For Renewal Of Voting Rights For All Americans

"Today marks the first anniversary of the Supreme Court’s destructive and naïve decision to invalidate section four of the Voting Rights Act – the landmark law that protects the most fundamental right in our democracy: the right to vote.

It is our responsibility to do everything in our power to remove obstacles to voting, to ensure every citizen has the right to vote and every vote is counted as cast. 

• In too many places across the country, we have seen efforts to deny Americans their right to be heard at the ballot box;
• We cannot tolerate voting discrimination, in any form, anywhere.

We need a VRA for today. It is time for Congress to come together and revise, renew and strengthen the Voting Rights Act.

• The Senate is moving forward, but the House refuses to act.

The choice is clear: advance the Voting Rights Amendment Act and reaffirm the most basic right in our democracy; or refuse to act, or delay, and enable the darkest forms of discrimination." - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson

Congresswoman Johnson Leads Prominent Political Figures Honoring Legacy Of Lyndon B. Johnson On 50th Anniversary Of 1964 Civil Rights Act

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, in conjunction with the Congressional Black Caucus, honored the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson in the Great Hall of the Library of Congress.  This event was centered around the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Members of Congress, prominent political leaders of the Johnson administration, noted presidential historians, and civil rights leaders gathered to discuss the legacy of President Johnson and how he was able to use his office and influence to secure the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

“It is often heralded that victory has many fathers. That is especially true when we look back upon the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,” said Congresswoman Johnson as she addressed the crowd. “Men, such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and President Lyndon B. Johnson, both had a great deal of power, and they used it to reshape our nation. President Johnson used the full power of his office to address the injustices of discrimination in American by advancing two of the most significant legislative endeavors in this Nation’s history: passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.”

The event centered on a panel discussion that featured Congressman John Lewis, the last living speaker at the March on Washington, former Texas House of Representatives Speaker, Ben Barnes, as well as authors and Johnson historians, Nick Kotz and Todd Purdum.  The panel discussion was moderated by one of President Johnson’s top advisors and former CNN President, Tom Johnson. 

Remarks and reflections on President Johnson and his efforts were also given by several prominent political figures including, Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, Congressman Jim Clyburn, Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer and Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr.  The event was attended by hundreds of guests that included several members of the Senate, House of Representatives, and the Congressional Black Caucus. 

Congresswoman Johnson Hosts Annual Youth Crime Prevention Summit

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson hosted nearly three hundred elementary and middle school students at her annual Youth Crime and Prevention Summit. The summit featured speakers from the Dallas Police department, community activists, and representatives from the Army Corps of Engineers.

“A successful life will require that you do well in school; that you follow the rules of our society, and that you obey the law” Congresswoman Johnson told the young people who gathered at the Dallas Youth World Center, a faith-based, non-profit organization that acts as an after school home for young people in Dallas. “There are times when you must study and not play. You must commit time to your school work to reach all the goals that you have set for yourselves.”

“We believe in feeding the minds and the hearts of young people,” said Darla Shirley, the pastor who oversees Youth World. “We have been in the community for more than 30 years, and we intend to remain here as long as there is a young person that needs our assistance.”

Dallas Police Chief David Brown implored the young people to be good citizens, telling them that the police officers were their allies. “Young people are our future,” Chief Brown said. “We must do all that we can to assist them and keep them on the right path.”

Dallas Community activists Anton Lucky and Reverend Omar Jahwar, the founder of Vision Regeneration, a well-known youth intervention group in Dallas were joined on a panel by Albert C. Zapanta from the North Texas Crime Commission and Eric Pedersen, from the Corps of Engineers. Each of the panelists spoke to the young people  about alternatives to getting into trouble on the streets this summer.

“You must decide, today, that you want to be a part of the solution and not a part of the problem,” Reverend Jahwar told the young people. “Each of you has a promising future, and you must make the best of it.”

Congresswoman Johnson: 'The Quest For Racial Justice In U.S. Goes On'

Next Wednesday we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This is a historic event and achievement that should be commemorated with great pride, humility and deference for the brave men and women whose blood and tears watered the soil of our nation’s democracy.

Oftentimes, when we look back in celebration of the Civil Rights Act, we focus on the heroism, leadership, vision and selflessness of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. King’s contributions were unparalleled. But it is often noted that victory has many fathers. That is especially true when we look back upon the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

This legislative feat would not have been possible without the contributions of many great men and women, black and white, Democrat and Republican, whose names are not heralded by history.
Growing up in the Jim Crow era, Lyndon Johnson had a political career that depended on his understanding of and respect for convention. His campaign to end discrimination defied conventional wisdom. Because he was from the South, he was believed to be inherently racist, like so many of his mentors.

But Johnson had a servant’s heart. His first job after college was as a teacher in a school attended by Hispanic children and in a town stricken by poverty. This experience awakened in him a strong belief that helping minorities would benefit all Americans, spiritually and economically.
During a time when the nation was deeply divided and racism served as our deadliest act of terrorism, herculean efforts were required to choose the side of morality.

During his first 20 years in Congress, Johnson opposed civil rights legislation because the political machine that sent him to Washington was powered by the wealth and power of Southern racism. But as Johnson watched the foundation of this great nation disintegrate through the grief and anger resulting from Southern horrors such as lynching; the brutal murder of four little girls in the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing; the devastating assassination of President John F. Kennedy; and the mayhem known as Bloody Sunday, he could no longer ignore his moral and spiritual duty to do what his spiritual and moral conscience demanded.

Fifty years ago, when he succeeded in his mission, we were fighting for the right to vote, for economic opportunity, financial security for our retired seniors and health care for the poor. It is almost unbelievable that we are fighting for the same rights today. We cannot be complacent and revel in victory. We have to remain vigilant to ensure that we do not travel backward.
In the 1960s, our nation was marked by moments of crisis: war, poverty and mass social injustice; today we find ourselves in a comparable state. We met the challenges then. It is time we rise to that challenge once more.

Despite the current climate, when it seems hopeless, when it is especially risky to challenge racism and sexism, when it appears that we are fighting a lost cause, we must remember that it is patriotic duty to continue the fight. We must fight to honor the legacy of those who fought for us. It is time for elected officials and community leaders to fulfill our duty as soldiers for justice. It is time for you, as citizens, to fulfill your duties by voting.


I will leave you with the words President Johnson spoke in December 1971, during his final public address: “We have proved that great progress is possible. We know how much still remains to be done. And if our efforts continue, and if our will is strong, and if our hearts are right, and if courage remains our constant companion, then, my fellow Americans, I am confident we shall overcome.”

Source: Waco Tribune

Congresswoman Johnson And Congressional Homelessness Caucus Host Briefing On 'Violence Against The Homeless Accountability Act'

The Congressional Homelessness Caucus, co-chaired by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson and Congressman Alcee Hastings, in conjunction with the office of Congressman John Conyers hosted an important briefing on violence against America’s homeless individuals. The briefing was held to bring awareness to and provide support for H.R. 1136, the Violence Against the Homeless Accountability Act of 2013.

Since 1999, the National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH) has documented more than 1,437 acts of violence against homeless individuals, 375 of which were fatal attacks.  Congresswoman Johnson proposed this legislation to amend the Hate Crime Statistics Act to include crimes against the homeless in the crime data collected by the Attorney General.

“Violence against homeless individuals is a problem that has no boundaries.  It is a threat to our homeless men, women and children of all backgrounds.  Until we have a sound understanding of the scope and nature of the problem, we will remain unable to develop targeted solutions or draft comprehensive reform.  Today's briefing is a solid step towards increased awareness of the problem.  We must continue to take deliberate steps toward ending violence against our homeless population.”

During the briefing, a clip was shown from Storied Streets, a documentary on the rash of violence against the homeless. Director, Tom Morgan spoke about the film and the stories from around the country that he investigated.  Actress and activist, Susan Sarandon, an advocate for homeless individuals, spoke at length about the atrocities and violent attacks homeless individuals face.  Sarandon also discussed many of the factors that can contribute to homelessness. Panelist, David Pirtle spoke at length about his time being homeless and the many acts of violence he personally survived.  Pirtle now works with the National Coalition for the Homeless.    

Congresswoman Johnson Pleased By House Passage Of NASA Reauthorization Act 2014

The House of Representatives today passed H.R. 4412, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2014, and S. 1254, the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act of 2013.

H.R. 4412 authorizes funding for one year and provides policy direction for NASA. 

Ranking Member of the Full Committee, Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), said of the bill, "This Act has come a long way from its original state nearly a year ago when the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology on which I serve as Ranking Member passed a different version of the bill on a party-line vote--a departure from the Committee's traditional bipartisan approach to NASA. However, much has changed since that time, and I want to recognize the efforts of the Committee leadership, including Chairman Lamar Smith and especially Space Subcommittee Chairman Steven Palazzo and Ranking Member Donna Edwards, for their dedication and willingness to work together with me to achieve this bipartisan Committee-passed bill, H.R. 4412, the NASA Authorization Act of 2014. While this is not a perfect bill, especially in terms of its short duration and lack of meaningful funding guidance, the bill in its present form includes many important policy provisions that help guide the future of NASA at a critical time for our space program."

Space Subcommittee Ranking Member, Donna F. Edwards (D-MD), said, "NASA is recognized across the world as a symbol of our greatness as a nation and for leadership in science and technology. In Maryland, NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center supports more than 15,000 civil service and private sector jobs, including highly skilled occupations such as engineers, technicians, mathematicians, and scientists. NASA also collaborates extensively with Maryland's high-tech business sector. These collaborations encourage the expansion of the skilled workforce that has made Maryland a leader in research and technology and grown our state's economy. The NASA Authorization Act of 2014 builds on the bipartisan support that Congress has given NASA as a multi-mission agency with programs in space and Earth science, aeronautics, human spaceflight, and exploration. This bill provides important policy direction that will strengthen our nation's space program in Maryland and across our country. I look forward to Senate action and getting this bill to the President for his signature." 

S. 1254 reauthorizes the Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Act.  Harmful algal blooms (HABs) occur when colonies of algae grow out of control while producing toxic or harmful effects on people, fish, shellfish, marine mammals, and birds. The bill maintains and enhances an interagency program led by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which will be responsible for promoting a national strategy to help communities understand, predict, control and mitigate freshwater and marine HAB and hypoxia events; enhancing, coordinating, and assessing the activities of existing HABs and hypoxia programs; providing for development of a comprehensive research plan and action strategy, including a regional approach to understanding and responding to HAB events; and requiring an assessment and plan for Great Lakes HABs and hypoxia.

Ms. Johnson said in her statement on S.1254, "Harmful Algal Blooms can have serious economic and public health effects. Shellfish beds along the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Pacific Coasts are often closed during a major event to protect the public from significant respiratory distress, shellfish poisoning, and other illnesses. The economic impact these closures can have on the shellfish industry and tourism is quite large. A single event can cost a coastal community tens of millions of dollars in lost revenue.  And while NOAA and the research community have made great strides since the establishment of this program the need for continued research and tools to lessen the impact of these events is greater than ever before. More accurate and efficient tools for detecting toxins, early warning of blooms, better predictions of bloom movement, methods for controlling outbreaks, and the development of local and regional partnerships will all allow for a more effective response."

Subcommittee on Environment Ranking Member Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) said, "Authorization for the programs under the Harmful Algal Bloom Research and Control Act expired in 2010, so this reauthorization is long overdue. The rapid overproduction of algae can have devastating effects on aquatic plants and animals as well as on human health.  For coastal and Great Lakes ecosystems and communities that depend on fishing and tourism to sustain their economies, the effect of algae blooms is a threat to their livelihood. The cost of these blooms has been estimated to be around $82 million dollars each year, a significant hit to the economy in areas that are still struggling to recover."

Ms. Bonamici continued later during her statement on the House floor, "The bill before us today...will not only improve coordination, but also assess the program's activities to ensure that we are prepared for these events and are able to respond in an effective manner. This will become increasingly important as coastal populations increase and changes in the environment, such as warmer water temperatures, have the potential to alter the growth, toxicity, and geographic distribution of algal blooms."

Congresswoman Johnson Mourns Passing Of Dr. Maya Angelou

Dr. Maya Angelou, award-winning writer, poet, and civil rights activist, died at age 86. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement in honor of the life and contributions of Dr. Maya Angelou:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of the literary icon, Maya Angelou. She dedicated her life to the empowerment of others through her inspirational poetry and sophisticated literary works.

Maya Angelou was a trailblazer for women and poets around the world. She worked as a civil rights activist, alongside both Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X, to help usher in historic change throughout the nation. As a newly elected Member of Congress, I had the great honor of being present during her reading of “On the Pulse of Morning” at President Clinton’s inauguration in 1993. She was the first African American woman to have that honor, and the first poet, since Robert Frost, to read at an inauguration in more than three decades. These are testaments to the extraordinary impact she had on American society.  

Today, we lost a great teacher, mentor, leader and American. Maya Angelou’s creative works and poems are timeless. Her influence will be felt for generations to come.  We will continue to revisit and reflect upon her words for years to come.”

Congresswoman Johnson Recognizes Memorial Day

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement in recognition of Memorial Day:

“President John F. Kennedy said it best... “A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces, but also by the men it remembers… The men it honors.”

Memorial Day is a time our nation pauses to remember and honor the more than 1 million heroic men and women who sacrificed their lives on behalf of our country in the name of freedom and democracy.

For their bravery, their sacrifices, and their selflessness, we owe a tremendous debt of gratitude. Today, we salute the fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters who secured our futures by sacrificing their own. Without the brave efforts of all our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, our country would not live so freely. We honor our fallen heroes for their acts of valor and heroism. They empower our country to remain the lighthouse of democracy throughout the world.

Today, as we visit national cemeteries, attend barbeques and engage in other activities, we will pray for our slain heroes and the loved ones they left behind. May God Bless our Veterans and may God Bless America.”

Congresswoman Johnson Introduces Legislation To Combat Illegal Practice Of Adoption 'Re-Homing'

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, along with Rhode Island Congressman Jim Langevin, introduced new legislation aimed at addressing the disturbing issue of “re-homing” unwanted adopted children using private Internet forums. H.R. 4704 would expand the scope of the existing Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which operates under the Department of Justice, to include the illegal transfer of children.

Once the Reuters investigation of re-homing broke last year, Congresswoman Johnson saw this as an immediate area that needed to be addressed. Families involved in this unregulated and underground practice connect through internet groups. These networks make dubious or outright illegal arrangements to give away their adopted children to strangers, often across state lines, with little or no legal documentation, and in some cases, with forged or fake documents.

“The practice of illicit re-homing must stop. Many vulnerable children are hurt by this practice,” said a concerned Congresswoman Johnson. “We must empower the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force with strong legislation to combat these heinous acts. Legal adoption is a judicious process that ensures the careful vetting of prospective families and homes fit for a child. The Illegal transfer of children completely undermines this process and puts too many children and families at risk.”

In addition to the direct harm to children, re-homing abuses have also lead countries to suspend adoptions by parents in the United States. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, hundreds of approved inter-country adoptions are being suspended, partly, because reports of abuse and re-homing have surfaced.

“In order to ensure that the United States is a safe place for children adopted internationally, action is required,” said Congresswoman Johnson. “Law enforcement must be able to find and prosecute these offenses, and we must put a stop to the underground market for children whose adoptive parents have decided they no longer wanted them. Every child deserves to be legally placed in a loving home.”

Congresswoman Johnson Comments On Allegations Of Misconduct At Dallas Veterans Administration Health Care System

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement concerning the allegations of misconduct in the Dallas Veterans Administration Health Care System:

“ I am pleased that the incidents involving the Phoenix VA Health Care System are finally receiving national attention and that the president has appointed Rob Nabors, the White House Deputy Chief of Staff, to investigate the allegations of employee misconduct and the manipulation of VA patient wait-times. This is laudable. But I would urge Mr. Nabors to cast a wider net. My staff and I have been working on similar VA issues within the Dallas VA Health Care System for more than 5 years. Recently, I was made aware of allegations that the VA staff in Dallas was instructed to destroy appointment records. It has been difficult to get VA staff to step forward in light of recent claims related to an institutional culture of retaliation within the VA.

It is the job of elected officials to speak up and fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. I take these allegations very seriously. I have contacted the VA’s Office of Inspector General and requested that they investigate allegations that the VA ordered its staff at the Dallas VA to destroy appointment records.

This entire situation is heartbreaking. I worked at the VA Hospital in Dallas for 15 years, and I loved my work and the people I was privileged to serve. I am also aware of the culture there and how hard-working and loyal the employees there are. They should be protected. Their leaders should not force them to choose between being able to feed their families and carrying out a public trust. More importantly, the tens of thousands of veterans who depend on the VA for their care should be protected. I care very deeply for every Veteran who risked their life and health to serve our country. The VA health care officials should as well. As a nation, we should stand with a united voice and call for the protection of those who risk life and limb to protect us.

I am calling for the VA’s immediate action to improve the speed and quality of health care provided to our country’s heroes. I am calling for an immediate, independent, objective review of the Dallas VA. If these allegations are true, corrective actions should be swift.”