Texas Democrat Representative Sheila Jackson Lee, known for her fierce advocacy and dedication to her constituents, has passed away at the age of 74. Jackson Lee, who served Houston’s 18th Congressional District for nearly three decades, succumbed to pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis she revealed just six weeks prior to her death on July 19, 2024.
Jackson Lee’s storied career in public service began in 1995 when she first took office in the U.S. House of Representatives. Throughout her tenure, she became a prominent figure in the fight for racial justice, human rights, and progressive causes. Her legislative achievements include being the chief sponsor of the resolution to make Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2021, a milestone celebrated nationwide .
Congresswoman Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Passes Away at 74. The nation mourns the loss of longtime Texas Democratic Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who passed away at the age of 74. Her family shared the heartbreaking news through a statement on X,https://t.co/iyrcYl0WaS pic.twitter.com/YDZfA2syJO
— Joseph Collins Jr For President (@JosephC4Pres) July 22, 2024
Born on January 12, 1950, in Queens, New York, Jackson Lee’s early life was marked by academic excellence, earning a degree in political science from Yale University and a J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law. Her commitment to public service was evident early on, serving as staff counsel on the U.S. House Select Committee on Assassinations before relocating to Houston, where her political career would flourish.
In Houston, Jackson Lee broke barriers as one of the first Black and female members elected to the City Council. Her leadership and passion for justice paved the way for her Congressional career, where she won the Democratic primary against incumbent Rep. Craig Washington in 1994 and never looked back.
There's only 1 Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee ..🕊🕊😥😥🙏🏽🙏🏽 #congresswomansheilajacksonlee #jxavierofficial pic.twitter.com/cRETrajqln
— JXavierOfficial.com (@jxavierofficial) July 23, 2024
Throughout her career, Jackson Lee was known for her relentless work ethic and dedication to her constituents. She was a senior member of the House Judiciary Committee, the Committee on Homeland Security, and the Budget Committee. Her work extended beyond legislation; she was a constant presence in her district, known for her compassion and commitment to addressing local issues.
Her battle with cancer was not her first; Jackson Lee had previously survived breast cancer over a decade ago. In her announcement of her pancreatic cancer diagnosis on June 2, 2024, she expressed her determination to continue serving her constituents despite her health challenges. "I am committed to working with our Congressional Leadership… to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation that is critical for the prosperity and security of the American people," she stated.
Jackson Lee's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi lauded her "relentless determination" in championing issues of fairness and justice.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott and former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner also expressed their condolences, highlighting her tireless advocacy for Houston and her impactful legacy in public service.
