Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-02-09

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JAMES "DR. DADDIO" WALKER

TaxesCivil Rights

Context

On 2026-02-09, Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JAMES "DR. DADDIO" WALKER" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered civil rights.

Full Text

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JAMES "DR. DADDIO" WALKER

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 27 (Monday, February 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 27 (Monday, February 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E119] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JAMES ``DR. DADDIO'' WALKER ______ HON. DIANA DeGETTE of colorado in the house of representatives Monday, February 9, 2026 Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of James ``Dr. Daddio'' Walker, a legendary Denver DJ, radio station owner, mentor, and community leader whose voice shaped Colorado's airwaves and whose impact will be felt for generations to come. He passed away in late January 2026, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of service, faith, and unwavering commitment to Denver's Black community. Dr. Daddio was a visionary and broadcaster. In 1989, he became the owner and operator of KDKO Radio, AM 1510, a historic Black-owned radio station that long served as a cultural and civic cornerstone for Denver. Known for its rich blend of R&B, soul, blues, and community- focused talk programming, KDKO was a trusted platform where music, news, faith, and civic engagement came together. Dr. Daddio made history as the first Black owner of an urban radio station west of the Mississippi River--a milestone recognized by the Denver Public Library when it inducted him into its Hall of Fame in 2008. His work ensured that Black voices, stories, and accomplishments were heard, celebrated, and remembered. Through his voice and leadership, Dr. Daddio opened doors for countless Black radio professionals, mentoring generations of broadcasters and community leaders. He stood proudly for unifying our communities while amplifying the fight for civil rights across Colorado and beyond. He used his microphone as a platform for advocacy, civic engagement, and change. Dr. Daddio was also deeply committed to strengthening democracy. He consistently encouraged voter participation and community involvement, believing that informed and engaged citizens are the foundation of a healthy society. I had the privilege of appearing on his show on numerous occasions to witness firsthand his passion for empowering people through information and dialogue. Above all, Dr. Daddio was a man of faith, family, and love. His family described him as a ``visionary voice in media'' who used that voice to uplift culture, amplify community voices, and mentor others. He now rests reunited with his beloved wife, Pat, and leaves behind a family and community profoundly shaped by his example. Denver and the state of Colorado have lost a trailblazer, a connector, and a champion for justice and unity. As we remember Dr. Daddio, may we also honor his legacy by continuing to uplift one another, amplify voices too often unheard, and work toward a more just and inclusive community for all. ____________________

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HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JAMES "DR. DADDIO" WALKER Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 27 (Monday, February 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 27 (Monday, February 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E119] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JAMES ``DR. DADDIO'' WALKER ______ HON. DIANA DeGETTE of colorado in the house of representatives Monday, February 9, 2026 Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of James ``Dr. Daddio'' Walker, a legendary Denver DJ, radio station owner, mentor, and community leader whose voice shaped Colorado's airwaves and whose impact will be felt for generations to come. He passed away in late January 2026, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of service, faith, and unwavering commitment to Denver's Black community. Dr. Daddio was a visionary and broadcaster. In 1989, he became the owner and operator of KDKO Radio, AM 1510, a historic Black-owned radio station that long served as a cultural and civic cornerstone for Denver. Known for its rich blend of R&B, soul, blues, and community- focused talk programming, KDKO was a trusted platform where music, news, faith, and civic engagement came together. Dr. Daddio made history as the first Black owner of an urban radio station west of the Mississippi River--a milestone recognized by the Denver Public Library when it inducted him into its Hall of Fame in 2008. His work ensured that Black voices, stories, and accomplishments were heard, celebrated, and remembered. Through his voice and leadership, Dr. Daddio opened doors for countless Black radio professionals, mentoring generations of broadcasters and community leaders. He stood proudly for unifying our communities while amplifying the fight for civil rights across Colorado and beyond. He used his microphone as a platform for advocacy, civic engagement, and change. Dr. Daddio was also deeply committed to strengthening democracy. He consistently encouraged voter participation and community involvement, believing that informed and engaged citizens are the foundation of a healthy society. I had the privilege of appearing on his show on numerous occasions to witness firsthand his passion for empowering people through information and dialogue. Above all, Dr. Daddio was a man of faith, family, and love. His family described him as a ``visionary voice in media'' who used that voice to uplift culture, amplify community voices, and mentor others. He now rests reunited with his beloved wife, Pat, and leaves behind a family and community profoundly shaped by his example. Denver and the state of Colorado have lost a trailblazer, a connector, and a champion for justice and unity. As we remember Dr. Daddio, may we also honor his legacy by continuing to uplift one another, amplify voices too often unheard, and work toward a more just and inclusive community for all. ____________________