Democratic Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas has died, her family said in a statement Friday night.
The female congresswoman died at the age of 74.
“It is with deep sadness at her loss but with deep gratitude for the life she shared with us that we announce the passing of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee for Texas’ 18th Congressional District,” her family said in a statement.
“A local, national and international humanitarian, she was recognized worldwide for her courageous fight for racial justice, criminal justice and human rights, with a special focus on women and children,” the statement continued.
Photo: Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference – Phoenix Awards (Jemal Countess/Getty Images, Courtesy of Congress B)
Rep. Jackson Lee was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in June.
“She will be truly missed, but her work will continue to be an inspiration to all who believe in freedom, justice and democracy,” her family said.
A member of the Congressional Black Caucus, she has been active in Congress for nearly three decades, most recently when Rep. Jackson Lee reintroduced the George Floyd Police Justice Act in May.
Jackson Lee, who represents Texas’ 18th Congressional District, which includes parts of Houston, recently won his primary and reclaimed his seat.
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