Texas Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee
Texas Flags Lowered to Half-Staff: Honoring Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee
On Thursday, August 1, residents and visitors across Texas will observe both the Texas state flag and the United States flag flying at half-staff. This solemn gesture is a tribute to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee of Houston, who passed away in mid-July after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. The act of lowering the flags is a powerful symbol of respect and mourning, uniting the community in honoring her legacy.
The decision to lower the flags was made by both state and federal authorities, and it is a reflection of the profound impact Congresswoman Lee had on her constituents, her state, and the nation. The flags at Houston City Hall and other municipal buildings have been at half-staff since Monday, July 29, and this status will extend to buildings statewide on August 1. This gesture ensures that her contributions and dedication to public service are recognized and remembered by all.
Honoring a Life of Service
Sheila Jackson Lee’s life was marked by her unwavering commitment to public service. Her Celebration of Life Service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on August 1 at Fallbrook Church, located at 12512 Walters Road in Houston. The service will feature a eulogy delivered by Vice President Kamala Harris, reflecting the high regard in which Congresswoman Lee was held by her peers. The event will also be available for viewing online, allowing those who cannot attend in person to pay their respects.
President Joe Biden visited Houston on Monday to extend his condolences personally, underscoring the national significance of her passing. Governor Greg Abbott also issued a heartfelt statement, urging all Texans to remember Congresswoman Lee’s dedication to the state and the country. “On behalf of Texas, the First Lady and I offer our thoughts and prayers to the family in their time of mourning,” Abbott said. “I urge all Texans to appropriately remember Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee’s life of service to our state and nation.”
Widespread Observance and Participation
Community Involvement
The governor’s office has encouraged individuals, businesses, and other political subdivisions and entities to join in this tribute by flying their flags at half-staff for the same duration. This collective act of remembrance allows the entire community to participate in honoring Congresswoman Lee’s legacy.
- Individuals: Homeowners are encouraged to lower their flags as a personal tribute.
- Businesses: Companies can demonstrate their respect by participating in the flag-lowering.
- Political Subdivisions: Local governments and public institutions are urged to join in this statewide observance.
FAQs
Why are the flags in Texas being lowered to half-staff?
The flags are being lowered to honor Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who passed away in mid-July after battling pancreatic cancer.
When will the flags be at half-staff?
The flags have been at half-staff since Monday, July 29, and will continue to be so until Thursday, August 1.
Who will deliver the eulogy at Congresswoman Lee’s Celebration of Life Service?
Vice President Kamala Harris will deliver the eulogy at the service.
Can the public attend the Celebration of Life Service?
Yes, the service will be held at Fallbrook Church in Houston and will also be available for viewing online.
What has Governor Greg Abbott said about Congresswoman Lee’s passing?
Governor Abbott issued a statement offering thoughts and prayers to her family and urged Texans to remember her life of service.
Conclusion
The lowering of flags across Texas and the United States in honor of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee is a poignant reminder of her significant contributions to public service. Her dedication to her constituents and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those she served will not be forgotten. This statewide observance allows everyone to reflect on her legacy and pay their respects in a unified manner. As Texans, and as a nation, we come together to honor a remarkable woman who devoted her life to serving others.
