The publication is reproduced in full below:
IN MEMORY OF FORMER CONGRESSWOMAN ELIZABETH FURSE
______
HON. SUZANNE BONAMICI
of oregon
in the house of representatives
Thursday, April 22, 2021
Ms. BONAMICI. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of Congresswoman Elizabeth Furse, who represented the people of Oregon's First District in this chamber from 1993 to 1999.
I am privileged to have called Elizabeth a friend and a mentor. My first experience volunteering for a political campaign was when I made calls and knocked on doors working for her Congressional race for re-
election in 1994. She inspired dedication to worthy causes, including co-founding the Oregon Peace Institute, and embodied the traits all public servants should strive to uphold--to meet the needs of their community and drive meaningful change. Her trailblazing example helped shape my life and my career, and the lives of so many others.
Elizabeth was only the third woman to represent Oregon in the House of Representatives, and as an immigrant she was fully committed to protecting the rights of all. Her start in advocacy came at a young age in Kenya, and in her youth she courageously participated in the protests against apartheid in South Africa. From there she continued to grow as a leader and advocate, pursuing a career path that allowed her to serve as a fierce champion for tribal sovereignty, social justice, and peace. She aided countless people during her time in Congress and throughout her life, and her many achievements include helping the Grand Ronde, Klamath, and Coquille tribes gain federal recognition, as well as increasing access to public transportation in our region by extending light rail service to Hillsboro. After leaving Congress, Elizabeth continued to stay involved in her community and enjoyed spending time with her husband John at their winery.
Our world, and especially NW Oregon, is a better place because of Elizabeth's tireless devotion to improving the lives of those around her. Let us continue to serve others in her memory.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 70
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