HONORING JEFFERSON HOLLAND

On 2026-07-21, Representative Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-3) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING JEFFERSON HOLLAND" in the House.

HONORING JEFFERSON HOLLAND

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [House] [Page H4698] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING JEFFERSON HOLLAND (Ms. ELFRETH asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.) Ms. ELFRETH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a friend, Jefferson Holland, poet laureate of Annapolis and a modern-day Chesapeake troubadour. Anyone fortunate enough to know Jeff knows that he is a pillar of our community who has dedicated his life to capturing and sharing the essence of the Chesapeake Bay through song, story, and poetry. Leading up to America's 250th anniversary, Jeff spearheaded Poets Afloat, a unique celebration featuring original poetry by locals, inspired by the rich history, characters, and spirit of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County. Mr. Speaker, I will leave you with Jeff's own words that capture Annapolis' role in Nation's history--words I couldn't put to paper but words I hope this entire Chamber can take to heart: Let Annapolis show the world how democracy is done with justice, not with vengeance; with the truth, not outright lies; with good sense and consensus. ____________________