HONORING STATE REPRESENTATIVE ABDELNASSER RASHID

On 2025-04-29, Representative Jesús G. "Chuy" García (D-IL-4) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING STATE REPRESENTATIVE ABDELNASSER RASHID" in the House.

HONORING STATE REPRESENTATIVE ABDELNASSER RASHID

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 71 (Tuesday, April 29, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 71 (Tuesday, April 29, 2025)] [House] [Page H1714] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING STATE REPRESENTATIVE ABDELNASSER RASHID (Mr. GARCIA of Illinois asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. GARCIA of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, as we approach the end of Arab American Heritage Month, I rise to honor my colleague and friend, State Representative Abdelnasser Rashid. As the first Muslim elected in the Illinois General Assembly and the only Palestinian American to serve, he is not just making history; he is crafting it. He didn't step forward for titles or recognition. He stepped forward because families and communities like his have waited long enough for homegrown leaders who carry their hopes because they know their hardships. His presence is a testament to perseverance, principle, and the strength to stay true to community. Abdelnasser carries the hopes of generations on his shoulders. He knows his work is bigger than any one person, and he does so with quiet courage, not seeking applause, but grounded in the belief that dignity and opportunity are rights, not privileges. Representative Rashid isn't just honoring his heritage; he is building a future. Mr. Speaker, today, we are proud to stand with him. ____________________