Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in honor of a true pioneer and a pathbreaker for women in politics: Shirley Chisholm. I commend Congresswoman LEE for bringing this resolution forward.
In 1968, Shirley Chisholm became the first African-American woman to win a seat in the United States Congress, joining 8 other African-American House members. Three decades later, 39 African-American members belong to this body, including 15 women. This is a clear sign of progress, but we have a long way to go to achieve full representation for women and people of color.
In 1972, Shirley Chisholm became the first black woman to run for President, saying later, ``I knew I wouldn't be president, but somebody had to break the ice, somebody with the nerve and bravado to do it.''
At each bold step in her career, she was regularly told, ``You've just committed political suicide,'' But she carried on. She said, ``Service is the rent that you pay for room on this earth.'' Thank you for the opportunity to honor Shirley Chisholm for her achievements and her indomitable spirit, and for paving the way for other people of color--and for women of all ethnic backgrounds--to serve in public office.