Statement of
U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek
Regarding the Death of Former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek issued the following statement regarding the death of former U.S. Representative Shirley Chisholm (D-NY), the nation's first black female elected to Congress.

"Congresswoman Chisholm charted a whole new course for black Americans. She was the first black woman elected to Congress and paved the way for dozens who came after her, including my mother, former U.S. Rep. Carrie P. Meek. Shirley Chisholm was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, a pioneer in civil and women's rights issues, and was the first black of either gender to run for President of the United States.

"Her determination and passion for the issues she believed in was always perfectly packaged by her charm and eloquence. The daughter of Caribbean immigrants, she never ceased to push for a better country for all Americans.

"Congresswoman Chisholm is an inspiration to me and every Member of Congress. Her legacy will never be forgotten, and I will always consider her path-breaking career as a motivation to serve the people of Florida's 17th Congressional District as best I can."

-30-