HONORING REVEREND PHIL LAWSON

On 2025-03-11, Representative Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING REVEREND PHIL LAWSON" in the House. The speech addressed civil rights.

HONORING REVEREND PHIL LAWSON

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 45 (Tuesday, March 11, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 45 (Tuesday, March 11, 2025)] [House] [Page H1082] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1215 HONORING REVEREND PHIL LAWSON (Mr. DeSAULNIER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Reverend Phil Lawson, a civil rights leader, pastor, tireless advocate for social justice, mentor, and friend. From a young age, Reverend Lawson committed himself to faith and peace, studying nonviolent direct action under the leadership of Bayard Rustin. He emerged as a powerful voice for civil rights, participating in events like the historic 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches alongside his friend, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. After leading a Methodist parish in Kansas City, Reverend Lawson took a job with the city of Berkeley, California. He later served in roles at two local Methodist parishes before being appointed to lead the Easter Hill United Methodist Church in Richmond, California. His work on social justice issues earned him recognition as the Contra Costa County Humanitarian of the Year in 2003. After a distinguished life of service, Reverend Lawson passed away earlier this year at the age of 92. He will be remembered for his outstanding character and his deep impact on this country and our community in California. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Reverend Phil Lawson. ____________________