mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
FURTHER CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
Hakeem S. Jeffries (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-3-22

. Madam , I thank the distinguished gentlewoman from the great State of Connecticut for yielding, the Honorable Rosa DeLauro. I thank her for her extraordinary leadership throughout this process and getting us to this principled result. prgtoken I thank all the appropriators for their extraordinary work, on the ic side and on the side, as part of the effort to complete the fiscal year 2024 appropriations. prgtoken This hasn't been a perfect process, but we should never let the perfect be the enemy of the good when it comes to solving problems on behalf of hardworking American taxpayers. prgtoken This is a good result for the American people in terms of standing up for their health, their safety, their education, their national security protection, and, of course, above all else, their economic well-being, a bipartisan process leading to a bipartisan result that will hopefully lay a foundation for us to continue to do the work of the American people together. prgtoken We have said from the very beginning of this Congress that, as , we will find bipartisan common ground with our colleagues on any issue, whenever and wherever possible, as long as it will make life better for the American people. That is exactly what House continue to do. prgtoken At the same time, we have said we will push back against extremism whenever necessary. prgtoken We will always defend a woman's freedom to make her own reproductive healthcare decisions. prgtoken We will always defend the gorgeous mosaic of the American people and push back against unnecessary attacks against diversity, equity, and inclusion. These are American values. prgtoken We will always fight to protect and strengthen Social Security and Medicare. prgtoken We will always put people over politics. prgtoken We hope that that will continue, not just on the ic side but together to solve problems for the American people. prgtoken As soon as we complete this work, let us turn to our national security priorities and make sure that we don't abandon the people of Ukraine in their hour of greatest need as they fight for principles like democracy, freedom, and truth, and push back against autocracy, tyranny, and propaganda. prgtoken America should always stand on the side of principles like democracy, freedom, and truth, and that means standing with the people of Ukraine. prgtoken I thank, once again, the appropriators for their leadership in concluding this process. I urge everybody to support this legislation. prgtoken I hope that as we move forward in our promise to you and, more importantly, to the American people, who expect that in this Congress we should have more common sense and less chaos, more decency and less dysfunction, and more exceptionalism and less extremism, our promise to you is that we will do our best to put people over politics. We hope that you will do the same. prgtoken Vote ``yes'' on this bill.
RECOGNIZING MY PRESS SECRETARY, TAYLOR DEACON, FOR HER EXCELLENT WORK ON BEHALF OF MINNESOTA'S THIRD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT
Dean Phillips (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2024-3-22

I rise today to recognize my Press Secretary, Taylor Deacon, for her work on behalf of every constituent in Minnesota's Third Congressional District. This week, Taylor will depart my office for a new opportunity serving as Deputy Communications Director and Press Secretary in the Office of Rep. Don Davis, and I could not be more proud or grateful for her service. prgtoken A Michigan native, Taylor's Midwest work ethic shines through in everything she does. From earning a Girl Scout Gold Award to graduating Magna Cum Laude from Elon University, her grit was as evident early in life as it is now on Capitol Hill. prgtoken As my Press Secretary, Taylor served as a trusted advisor and liaison to the media, using her sharp communications skills to articulate the accomplishments of our office and forge productive relationships with members of the press. Taylor brought a combination of passion, zeal, and enthusiasm to whatever task she was assigned. Her communications instincts, honed by work experience in the private and public sectors, are top notch, and I couldn't ask for a better companion to dash to an interview during a busy week. prgtoken Taylor Deacon has a rare combination of wit and patience that helps her maneuver whatever press landscape came her way. An invaluable member of my team, Taylor brought humor to a job that can often feel heavy and remained unflappable in tough situations. Her colleagues on the legislative team will always remember her skill at turning dry bill text into punchy press releases and consistently being game for a little wordplay on even the most arcane topics. Taylor has explained the difference between official and political work enough in the past year to last a lifetime and still has a bright smile for everyone she encounters. Her charm and grace--as well as her sarcasm--will be deeply missed by her colleagues. prgtoken The people of Minnesota's Third Congressional District were lucky to have her expertise and leadership, and she will be dearly missed. However, I'm extraordinarily happy that this expertise will continue to serve the Nation and the people of North Carolina's First Congressional District. I wish Taylor all the best in her future endeavors and thank her for three years of faithful service to this Nation--and many more to come.
WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH
Benjamin L. Cardin (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2024-3-22

this Women's History Month, I find it more important than ever to celebrate and recognize the contributions of women to society. Women's rights are under attack in the United States and around the world. Since the Dobbs decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, we have witnessed policies that are taking away a women's constitutional right to control their own bodies, with many legislators passing harmful abortion restrictions. But, as President said in his State of the Union, ``They have no clue about the power of women in America.'' prgtoken This year, the National Women's Alliance has chosen the theme of ``Women who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.'' To contribute to this theme, I want to honor Maryland's many famous female activists and community leaders throughout history who promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. prgtoken First, a woman whose contributions cannot be overstated is Harriet Tubman. An abolitionist and political activist best known as the conductor of the Underground Railroad who emancipated an estimated 300 enslaved people. A paragon of freedom and justice, she was born in Dorchester County, MD, in March of 1822. She was also the first American woman to lead an armed military raid, acting as a spy and nurse for the Union Army during the Civil War. After the war, she continued to fight for civil rights, leading the charge for women's suffrage with other significant figures such as Susan B. Anthony. The fight for gender equality prgtoken continues today, as I lead my colleagues in working to recognize ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. prgtoken Second, I want to recognize Rachel Carson, a marine biologist and nature writer, who catalyzed the global environmental movement. In her home in Silver Spring, MD, Rachel Carson wrote ``Silent Spring,'' which outlined the dangers of chemical pesticides to humans and the environment. The pesticide industry pushed back against her, branding her as crazy and communist, but she persevered. Through her continued research and advocacy, ``Silent Spring'' led to the banning of DDT and other pesticides and ultimately led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency. She has been an overwhelming influence on my work to preserve our environment and the Chesapeake Bay. prgtoken I also want to honor Irene Morgan Kirkaldy, a Black civil rights activist who took a stand against segregation. Kirkaldy, a Baltimore native, was riding a Greyhound bus back home from Virginia in July of 1944 when she was arrested for refusing to give up her seat to a White couple. When her case made it to the Supreme Court, she was represented by Thurgood Marshall, and the Court ruled that segregation violated the Constitution's ``protection of interstate commerce.'' Her bravery paved the way for the Civil Rights Movement going forward, including the monumental Brown v. Board of Education decision and Rosa Parks' similar act of resistance
CRITICAL IMPORTANCE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION (DEI)
Joyce Beatty (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2024-3-22

I rise today to underscore the critical importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across America--a subject deeply personal to me, as a Black woman. prgtoken Generations of separate and unequal education, housing, employment, and compensation have left Black Americans at a persistent disadvantage. DEI holds our Nation accountable for this unjust and unequal treatment that began with slavery and segregation and continues with policies and practices that persist in discriminating against Black people denying them equal opportunity and treatment. prgtoken The statistics are stark: non-white school districts receive $2,226 less per student on average, contributing to an achievement gap that reduces Black students' college attendance and lifetime earnings by 65 percent. Even with advanced degrees, African American women earn significantly less than their white male counterparts and still less than white males with less education. African American women holding advanced degrees, such as a master's, earn $7 less per hour than Caucasian men with a bachelor's degree, and $17 less per hour than their Caucasian male peers. prgtoken Furthermore, systemic biases persist in financial systems, where Black families earning substantially more than white families are still less likely to qualify for loans. A Black family earning $157,000 per year is less likely to qualify for a loan than a white family earning $40,000. DEI efforts must continue to level the playing field and establish a meritocracy reflecting our national values. prgtoken While correcting for the injustice of the past and present, DEI is a tool of intention, shaping our national protectory. It compels us to strategically engage all our country's talent to compete in the global marketplace of today and tomorrow. prgtoken In today's fiercely competitive global economy, America's innovation, and adaptability hinge on our ability to harness the talents and perspectives of all our citizens. By cultivating diverse talent pipelines and fostering inclusive practices, we not only enhance our competitiveness but also lead in the global arena. Companies embracing DEI outperform their peers, with McKinsey studies showing a significant profitability gap between leading DEI practicing organizations and those lagging. Companies in the fourth quartile of both gender and ethnic diversity were 27 percent more likely to underperform on profitability than all other companies in their peer group. prgtoken Despite the proven benefits of DEI, right-wing conservatives seek to dismantle these efforts, perpetuating racial hostility and discrimination. Workplace discrimination lawsuits have surged, and hate crimes continue to rise to record levels year after year, in their wake, underscoring the urgent need for DEI to counteract these trends and increase awareness of each other's humanity and perspective. prgtoken The DEI journey we have embarked upon is not just about number
RECOGNIZING SENATOR JEAN BREAUX
André Carson (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2024-3-22

today I rise in honor of Indiana Senator Jean Breaux, who lived a life of selfless and profound service to the Indianapolis community. prgtoken For decades, Senator Breaux served our community with her signature fierce advocacy and fighting spirit. Prior to holding office, Senator Breaux worked for the Indiana Department of Economic Development, where she fought for Hoosiers of all backgrounds. In 2006, she was elected to the Indiana Senate--following in the footsteps of her mother, Billie Breaux--and served as assistant ic leader for the Senate ic Caucus from 2012 to 2020. prgtoken In her role, Senator Breaux fought tirelessly for vulnerable and disadvantaged Hoosiers. In particular, she worked to improve Black infant and maternal mortality, increased access to healthy food in food deserts, protected Hoosiers from rising utility costs, fought for reproductive justice, passed policies to address poverty, advocated for gun violence prevention to keep our communities safe, and so much more. In her role on the Senate Health Committee, she helped combat health disparities in the Black community and pushed for comprehensive access to care. Equity was always at the center of her service. Senator Breaux's initiative to eliminate school textbook fees passed last year, which will help Hoosier families for generations to come. prgtoken Senator Breaux's impact on our community is reflected in the outpouring of grief and support as the entire Indiana community mourns this substantial loss. She was a great friend, mentor, and confidante to so many, including myself. On many occasions, I relied on her wisdom to guide me, and the lessons she taught us all will continue to endure. On behalf of the entire 7th Congressional District, we offer our condolences to those grieving this significant loss, especially her beloved mother, former Senator Billie Breaux. prgtoken Today, we honor the life and legacy of Senator Jean Breaux, but we will continue to honor her every day moving forward by heeding her advice: fight for those less fortunate, no matter the obstacles in the way, speak up against injustice, and never stop working towards a brighter future.
HONORING OREGONIAN WOMEN
Ann M. Kuster (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2024-3-22

I rise to honor the trailblazing women throughout history who have fought for justice and equal rights. I am proud that many of these women were and are Oregonians. prgtoken There is Abigail Scott Duniway from Yamhill County, who became a vocal advocate for women's suffrage and was the first woman to register to vote in Oregon. prgtoken There is former Governor Barbara Roberts, who grew up in Sheridan and became the first woman elected to serve as Governor of Oregon. prgtoken There is Kathryn on who helped gain Federal recognition for the Grand Ronde Tribe in my district. prgtoken These are just a few examples, but there are many more women leaders who are largely left out of history books. Recognizing their legacy is one important step. prgtoken But we must continue building on the progress they have already made. prgtoken That is why I will keep working to expand access to paid leave and affordable childcare, protect reproductive freedoms across the Nation, and put an end to violence against women and girls. prgtoken During Women's History Month and every day of the year in honor of those who came before us, I will keep up the fight.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Patty Murray (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2024-3-22

it has been a long road, but we are about to vote on a bipartisan funding bill that the House passed overwhelmingly, and we are finally ready to close the book on fiscal year 2024. prgtoken This is not the legislation the and s would have written on our own. It is the result of tough negotiations. It is a bipartisan package that invests in families and our country's future. prgtoken I want to thank Vice Chair Collins and so many others for working with us to get this done. prgtoken This was not easy, but we all know how important the investments are that this bill makes in our country. It matters. So I hope all of our colleagues will join us now in voting to send these bipartisan bills to the President's desk. We don't have a minute to spare.
IMPROVING HOUSING IN AMERICA
Donald M. Payne, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2024-3-22

I rise today to praise President 's work to improve housing in America. prgtoken The President's leadership in this area has led to lower housing costs, expanded rental assistance, and increased affordable housing nationwide. prgtoken Now, the President wants to implement the most consequential housing plan in 50 years in this country. It would provide a $10,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers and people who sell their starter homes. It would build and renovate more than 2 million homes. prgtoken The plan would crack down on corporate actions that rob renters, and it would provide rental assistance for hundreds of thousands of families, veterans, and youth leaving foster care. prgtoken It is a bold plan that would benefit millions of Americans, and I am proud to support it on the House floor today.
CONGRATULATING THE SIMMONS COLLEGE LADY FALCONS
Morgan McGarvey (Democrat, KY) \u2014 2024-3-22

I rise today to congratulate Louisville's own Simmons College Lady Falcons on their first-ever Division II women's college basketball national championship. prgtoken They defeated the Toccoa Falls Screaming Eagles 79-70, bringing a national championship trophy to Louisville's only HBCU for the first time ever, and this is only the second year that Simmons College has even had a women's basketball team. What an incredible feat and what a great legacy they have started in just 2 years. prgtoken Congratulations to Head Coach Earl Ruffin, who was named the regional coach of the year for his success in leading the Lady Falcons to victory. prgtoken Congratulations to Simmons Sophomore Morgan Defoor, who scored 30 points in the championship game and was named a first team All- American. prgtoken Congratulations and thank you to our Lady Falcons for making all of us proud.
FURTHER CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
Rosa L. DeLauro (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2024-3-22

11,388 Members have served historically in the United States House of Representatives. prgtoken We are blessed, and what we are charged with is serving the American people. That is our job. It is not serving our individual philosophies, ideologies, or whatever it is that we believe. We need to govern on behalf of the American people. prgtoken I am proud to have been working with and s united to make government work for the people of this country. prgtoken It is a bipartisan bill, it sides with the hardworking majority of Americans, it helps to lower their cost of living, it protects women's rights, it reinforces America's global leadership, and, yes, it helps our communities be safe and secure. prgtoken What we do is not about those of us who serve in this Chamber. It is about what we do on behalf of the people of this country outside of this Chamber. This bill serves the American people, and it has and support to move forward. prgtoken We are 6 months into this 2024 year. We have been unable to do the work of the people because some people will hold us back. prgtoken Again, it is our job. The reason why we are elected is to serve the American people. That is what we are charged with. Let us never forget that we are blessed to serve here. We have a duty to perform and to do what is right. prgtoken , I urge my colleagues to support this bill. It makes sense for us to do it, and we do it because we represent hardworking families in this country who put their faith and trust in us to do this job on their behalf. prgtoken , .
TRIBUTE TO DR. SHERYL BRISSETT CHAPMAN
Chris Van Hollen (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2024-3-22

I rise today to honor an extraordinary woman and leader of our time, Dr. Sheryl Brissett Chapman. After more than three decades of service as executive director of The National Center for Children and Families--NCCF--she will be stepping down at the end of March. prgtoken In the course of her tenure, Dr. Brissett Chapman transformed NCCF from a small Baptist orphanage in Bethesda, MD, into a monumental force for good, serving over 53,155 vulnerable children, youth, and families in the National Capital Region. Her visionary expansion of NCCF saw the creation of 24 innovative programs, the addition of vital service locations and staff, and a $51 million growth in budget. This transformative growth has not only changed the face of NCCF but has rewritten futures, healed traumas, and built bridges to opportunities for a countless number of children, youth, and families. She and NCCF have called Maryland home during this incredible transformation. We are both extremely honored and incredibly proud that Dr. Brissett Chapman and NCCF have delivered these services from within our local community. prgtoken Yet Dr. Brissett Chapman's influence extends far beyond her executive role. She is a champion in the effort to address systemic reform on a wide range of topics, including the harsh realities of poverty, juvenile justice, homelessness, domestic violence, and illuminating the path to healing from childhood trauma with unwavering dedication and empathy. Her most recent publication, ``Black Male Youth Raised in Public Systems: Engagement, Healing, Hope,'' underscores her dedication to understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by Black male youth in public systems. This is just one example of her relentless pursuit of knowledge for empowerment and change. prgtoken Even as she prepares for retirement, Dr. Brissett Chapman's commitment to education remains unwavering. Her new roles as a trustee for Montgomery College and as a senior fellow for the Institute for Mastery and Integration further attest to her ongoing dedication to improving lives through education and advocacy, guiding the next generation of leaders and advocates. Maryland will continue to have the honor of being called home to both Dr. Brissett Chapman and NCCF as each continues to transform the lives of our youth. prgtoken As Dr. Brissett Chapman turns the page to a new chapter, she leaves a blueprint for compassionate, effective leadership in social welfare. Her impact and service will continue to be felt for decades to come, as her legacy continues to inspire and guide our collective efforts to serve the most vulnerable and to demonstrate what it means to be a force for change. Her legacy is one of hope. Thousands of lives in the National Capital Region and the State of Maryland have been transformed because of Dr. Brissett Chapman, and I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking her and wishing her a well-earned, enjoyable,