Floor SpeechNeutral2024-12-17

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM McMILLAN

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On 2024-12-17, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM McMILLAN" in the House. The speech addressed healthcare and also covered taxes, the environment.

Full Text

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM McMILLAN

Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1285] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM McMILLAN ______ HON. JOHN GARAMENDI of california in the house of representatives Tuesday, December 17, 2024 Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with Representative DeSaulnier, to honor the life and legacy of James ``Jim'' McMillan, a devoted public servant and trailblazing leader within Contra Costa County. Mr. McMillan passed away on November 28, 2024, at the age of 96. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Born in Mineral Wells, Texas, Mr. McMillan moved to Richmond, California in the 1950s, where he opened McMillan Pharmacy--the first Black-owned pharmacy in the city. McMillan Pharmacy became a vital gathering place for Richmond's African American community, fostering dialogue and action on critical social issues. Mr. McMillan made history as the first African-American graduate of the College of Pharmacy at Oregon State University. He was also the second Black graduate in the university's history. He brought his pioneering spirit to every endeavor, whether as a pharmacist, mentor, or elected official. In 1983, Mr. McMillan was elected to the Richmond City Council, where he served with distinction for three terms. He worked to combat systemic racism and police brutality in Richmond, calling for reform and accountability within the police department. He was instrumental in creating Richmond's first police review commission, which served as a model for oversight and community trust. Beyond his political achievements, Mr. McMillan was a compassionate neighbor and mentor. Mr. McMillan was known for his sharp sense of style and unwavering kindness and was deeply respected and loved by those who knew him. He devoted his life to uplifting others by mentoring aspiring leaders, delivering local newspapers to keep his neighbors informed, or simply offering a kind word and a helping hand. As a community health leader, he provided care and counsel to countless individuals in Richmond, often visiting patients in hospitals and ensuring they received the medical attention they needed. His contributions extended far beyond his profession. His work laid the foundation for lasting change, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. On behalf of the constituents of California's 8th and 10th Congressional Districts, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Mr. McMillan's loved ones. We know they and the people of Contra Costa County will join us in celebrating his life and legacy. ____________________

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HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM McMILLAN Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1285] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM McMILLAN ______ HON. JOHN GARAMENDI of california in the house of representatives Tuesday, December 17, 2024 Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with Representative DeSaulnier, to honor the life and legacy of James ``Jim'' McMillan, a devoted public servant and trailblazing leader within Contra Costa County. Mr. McMillan passed away on November 28, 2024, at the age of 96. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Born in Mineral Wells, Texas, Mr. McMillan moved to Richmond, California in the 1950s, where he opened McMillan Pharmacy--the first Black-owned pharmacy in the city. McMillan Pharmacy became a vital gathering place for Richmond's African American community, fostering dialogue and action on critical social issues. Mr. McMillan made history as the first African-American graduate of the College of Pharmacy at Oregon State University. He was also the second Black graduate in the university's history. He brought his pioneering spirit to every endeavor, whether as a pharmacist, mentor, or elected official. In 1983, Mr. McMillan was elected to the Richmond City Council, where he served with distinction for three terms. He worked to combat systemic racism and police brutality in Richmond, calling for reform and accountability within the police department. He was instrumental in creating Richmond's first police review commission, which served as a model for oversight and community trust. Beyond his political achievements, Mr. McMillan was a compassionate neighbor and mentor. Mr. McMillan was known for his sharp sense of style and unwavering kindness and was deeply respected and loved by those who knew him. He devoted his life to uplifting others by mentoring aspiring leaders, delivering local newspapers to keep his neighbors informed, or simply offering a kind word and a helping hand. As a community health leader, he provided care and counsel to countless individuals in Richmond, often visiting patients in hospitals and ensuring they received the medical attention they needed. His contributions extended far beyond his profession. His work laid the foundation for lasting change, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. On behalf of the constituents of California's 8th and 10th Congressional Districts, we would like to extend our deepest sympathies to Mr. McMillan's loved ones. We know they and the people of Contra Costa County will join us in celebrating his life and legacy. ____________________