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CONGRESSWOMAN SHEILA JACKSON LEE STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF WILLIE MAE KIRK

September 30, 2013

Press Statement

CONGRESSWOMAN SHEILA JACKSON LEE STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF WILLIE MAE KIRK

Willie Mae Kirk was a civil rights leader and teacher who fought against segregation in Austin

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee released the following statement on the passing of Willie Mae Kirk:

“Willie Mae Kirk was endearing to all women for what she stood for, her courage, her grace and her charity. She was a mentor to those that came after her in the state of Texas. But more importantly, Ms. Kirk made a difference to her family and friends. She recognized that America was better when it invested and believed in all of its people. Ms. Kirk’s passing is a loss for the state of Texas but her service should be a roadmap for all people who wish to make a difference in the lives of all Americans.

“A teacher for 32 years, Ms. Kirk championed equal opportunities for her students in East Austin and helped lead protests against segregation at Austin businesses, schools and Barton Springs Pool. Ms. Kirk played an important role in Austin politics over the past five decades, beginning with efforts to repeal the poll tax and register African Americans to vote. Even late in life, she continued to speak out about how minorities were treated in Austin, particularly in the wake of police shootings. My condolences and prayers go out to her whole family especially her son the Honorable Ron Kirk who was elected Mayor of Dallas and was later appointed the U.S. Trade Representative by President Barack Obama and whom I have the utmost respect for.

“Ms. Kirk understood that active engagement in politics was key to ending discrimination. That is where she thought things had to change. Her strength as a teacher and a leader for equal opportunity has made this a stronger and more just community and country. And through the example she set for her children, her reach has extended around the world.

“Ms. Kirk was not only a woman but a giant in the civil rights movement for whom people like the late Barbara Jordan looked up to. This pioneering woman in the civil rights movement of Texas left a roadmap for all of us to follow. Her loss will be felt throughout the State of Texas.

“Ms. Kirk’s first priority was always her students as she thought all kids need to have a place where they can get as much knowledge as they needed. Now, she happily joins her husband Lee Kirk. I hope it is a comfort to the Kirk family that so many people mourn their loss and appreciate the life Willie Mae Kirk.”