Sheila Jackson Lee
Sheila Jackson Lee, the founder and co-chair of the Pakistan Caucus in the US Congress, passed away on Friday at the age of 74 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Her family released a statement expressing their profound grief and gratitude for her impactful life: “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.”
The family’s statement emphasized Sheila’s vast contributions as a local, national, and global humanitarian. She was widely recognized for her brave advocacy for racial justice, criminal justice reform, and human rights, with a particular focus on women and children.
In June, Sheila publicly announced her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and her ongoing treatment, as reported by NBC News. Despite her illness, she continued her dedicated service until her passing.
Sheila Jackson Lee was the longest-serving congresswoman, honored with the Hilal-e-Pakistan by the Government of Pakistan for her significant contributions.
Her legislative efforts included pushing for civil rights laws, the Sentencing Reform Act of 2015, and the George Floyd Law Enforcement Trust and Integrity Act.
Additionally, she was the lead sponsor of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which established Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
Born in Queens, New York, Sheila graduated from Yale University and the University of Virginia Law School. Her early career included working as a private lawyer and as staff counsel for the House Select Committee on Assassinations.
Before her election to Congress, she served in Houston’s government as a City Council member and municipal judge.
Sheila is survived by her husband, two children, and two grandchildren. The news of her death brought a wave of condolences from various quarters.
The Pakistan Consulate General in Houston issued a statement on X, mourning the loss of a remarkable friend to the Pakistani-American community. “It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.
The Pakistani-American community in Houston lost a remarkable friend. As a fierce fighter, she worked tirelessly for the people. We share the grief of the family. RIP,” the statement read.
Sheila was a steadfast supporter of the Pakistani community, visiting Pakistan multiple times and ensuring cooperation and assistance at the US government level.
Many members of the Pakistani community, including Saeed Sheikh, president of the Houston-Karachi Sister City, Dr. Yaqoob Sheikh of Apna, and various officials from Pakistani organizations, expressed their sorrow and condolences.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to Sheila, acknowledging her role in strengthening relations between Pakistan and the US. “Sheila Jackson’s services will be remembered for years to come,” he said.
Former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Fawad Chaudhry expressed his condolences, highlighting her role as a great friend of Pakistan and Kashmir in the US Congress.
“Truly saddened by the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District of Texas after a battle with cancer.
She was the founder and co-chairman of the Pakistan Caucus. Pakistan and the people of Kashmir lost a great friend in the USA Congress,” he said.
Sheila Jackson Lee’s legacy as a dedicated public servant and advocate for justice and human rights will continue to inspire many.
Her tireless efforts and compassionate leadership have left an indelible mark on both her local community and the broader international stage.
