The Democratic congresswoman had been undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer
Sheila Jackson Lee Credit: Getty Images US congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a strong progressive voice in the Democratic Party who was outspoken on African-American and women’s rights, has died aged 74.
Ms Jackson Lee, who represented parts of Houston, Texas, announced last month she had pancreatic cancer and was undergoing treatment.
“Today, with incredible grief for our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas,” her family said in a statement on Friday.
“A fierce champion of the people, she was affectionately and simply known as ‘Congresswoman’ by her constituents in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service to their daily lives for more than 30 years.”
Ms Jackson Lee served in the House since 1995 Credit: Getty Images Ms Jackson Lee, was active throughout her career in promoting legislation aimed at addressing social justice, economic inequality and public health concerns.
She introduced a legislation in the House of Representatives to make “Juneteenth” a federal holiday commemorating the end of the legal enslavement of Black Americans.
The holiday marks the day in 1865 when a Union general informed a group of enslaved people in Texas that they had been made free two years earlier by President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation during the Civil War.
Ms Jackson Lee served on several House committees, including judiciary, homeland security and budget.
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