Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Issues a Statement on the Passing of Maria Jimenez

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29) issued a statement on the passing of longtime Houston civil rights activist Maria Jimenez:

"I have known Maria ever since I moved to the Houston region in the 70s, and she was always a fighter for women, minorities, and immigrants. She had a big heart and was motivated to do what was right in the fight for justice."

"Most notably, Maria was fighting for comprehensive immigration reform and immigrant rights since the 80s, well before many other leaders and groups started talking about the issue. Maria would always say, ‘We are going to go and we're going to protest. It doesn't matter if it is just me and you. It is important for us to speak up and for people to know we are fighting.' This has always stuck with me, and it beautifully captures her commitment to fairness, justice, and equality. It is now on us to continue her legacy. I will miss my dear friend. May she rest in peace."

Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2018, becoming the first Latina ever to represent the Texas 29th Congressional District. She serves on the House Judiciary and Financial Services Committees.