REMEMBERING BARBARA FLYNN CURRIE

On 2026-04-21, Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13) delivered a floor speech titled "REMEMBERING BARBARA FLYNN CURRIE" in the House. The speech addressed taxes.

REMEMBERING BARBARA FLYNN CURRIE

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 70 (Tuesday, April 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 70 (Tuesday, April 21, 2026)] [House] [Pages H3027-H3028] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1600 REMEMBERING BARBARA FLYNN CURRIE (Ms. BUDZINSKI asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.) Ms. BUDZINSKI. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Barbara Flynn Currie. Barbara was nothing short of extraordinary, a true trailblazer in every [[Page H3028]] sense. She made history as the first woman to serve in the Illinois House as Illinois House majority leader and became the longest serving woman in the general assembly. Her leadership didn't just break barriers. It reshaped what leadership could look like. As a founding mother of the Illinois Women in Leadership, also known as IWIL, Barbara inspired me and countless others to pursue a career in public service. She was a force who opened doors for generations of women in Illinois politics. She led with integrity, always putting people before politics, and proving that government can work effectively when guided by principle and purpose. That is the kind of leadership we need now more than ever. Mr. Speaker, Barbara will be deeply missed, but her example will continue to guide and inspire us for years to come. ____________________