On 2026-10-01, Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-8) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING CHAMPAGNE BROWN AS ONE OF CALIFORNIA'S 8TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT'S WOMEN OF THE YEAR" in the House.
HONORING CHAMPAGNE BROWN AS ONE OF CALIFORNIA'S 8TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT'S WOMEN OF THE YEAR Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 156 (Thursday, October 1, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 156 (Thursday, October 1, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1005] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING CHAMPAGNE BROWN AS ONE OF CALIFORNIA'S 8TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT'S WOMEN OF THE YEAR ______ HON. JOHN GARAMENDI of california in the house of representatives Thursday, October 1, 2026 Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Champagne Brown as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Shaped by her upbringing in South Central Los Angeles and her Louisiana roots, she has dedicated her career to equity, civil rights, and uplifting marginalized and underserved communities in Solano County. In her professional work, she manages a demanding caseload, providing direct services to individuals facing extreme poverty and deep systemic barriers. Beyond her career, Champagne is a devoted labor leader within SEIU 1021, where she advocates for workers and supports the union's mission to build safe, healthy, and equitable communities across Northern California. She is also a respected leader in California politics, serving as the District Director for Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA) in Contra Costa and Solano Counties, Regional Director for the CADEM Black Caucus, and co-chair of the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County (DPCCC) Club Development Committee. As the founder of Black Girls Politickin, Champagne has helped build political power for historically underrepresented communities and has played a key strategic role in historic campaigns. Her extraordinary contributions have earned her top honors, including the California Black Women's Collective ``Trailblazer Hall of Fame Award for Labor,'' the BWOPA ``Ella Hill Hutch Award,'' and the DPCCC ``Volunteer of the Year.'' On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Champagne Brown for her positive contributions to our community. ____________________