James E. Clyburn

Voter Empowerment Act of 2026

in committee

Enhanced Background Checks Act of 2025

in committee

“Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Dr. Preston N. Williams on the occasion of his 100th birthday. This milestone represents a century of wisdom, scholarship, leadership, and faith. Few people leave a legacy that touches classrooms, churches, universities, communities, and generations of students the way Dr. Williams has throughout his extraordinary life. Born in the rural town of Alcolu, South Carolina, Dr. Williams is a graduate of Washington & Jefferson College, Johnson C. Smith University, Yale Divinity School, and Harvard University. His life has reflected an extraordinary commitment to learning and faith. His distinguished teaching career at historically Black colleges, Boston University, and Harvard Divinity School inspired generations of students and colleagues alike. In every setting, Dr. Williams has nurtured minds and spirits, encouraging students to recognize their own dignity, intellectual gifts, and capacity to lead during times when such affirmation was urgently needed. Dr. Williams made history as the first tenured African American faculty member at Harvard Divinity School and later as the first African American to serve as Acting Dean of the School. He also served as founding director of Harvard's W.E.B. Du Bois Institute. Last year, I was honored to receive the W.E.B. Du Bois Medal from Harvard's Hutchins Center for African & African American Research, the successor to the Du Bois Institute. A leader among his peers, he also served as president of the American Academy of Religion, and president of the Society of Christian Ethics. Dr. Williams' scholarship in Christian ethics, African American religion, human rights, and social justice helped shape both academic study and public thought in profound and lasting ways. Those who know him best speak most often not of titles, but of his kindness, integrity, generosity, and wisdom. Throughout his life, Dr. Williams has demonstrated a deep commitment to building what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. called, ``the Beloved Community.'' He expanded opportunities for students and scholars of color, helped broaden the study of African American and African religions in theological education, and created pathways for clergy and civic leaders through the Summer Leadership Institute for Church-Based Community and Economic Development. Even beyond his formal leadership roles, he has been a mentor, encourager, and trusted guide to countless individuals whose lives were transformed by his generosity and wisdom. As we honor Dr. Williams' 100th birthday, we give thanks for the countless lives he has influenced, including students who have become leaders, colleagues who became friends, and communities strengthened by his presence. His life reminds us that true greatness is measured not simply by achievement, but by the impact one has on others. In June, Dr. Williams and his lovely wife Dr. Constance ``Connie'' Williams will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary. In honor of their lifetime of service to students, Harvard recently established the ``Constance W. and Preston N. Williams Scholarship Fund'' in their honor. They are the proud parents of David and Mark Williams. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in congratulating Dr. Preston N. Williams on this historic and joyful milestone. May his life continue to inspire and uplift his community for many years to come. ____________________”

2026-05-14 · Education

“Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of an extraordinary woman, Mrs. Christine Osburn Jackson, who entered eternal rest on February 25, 2026, at the age of 97. Mrs. Jackson's life was defined by courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. For more than three decades, she stood at the helm of the YWCA of Greater Charleston, transforming it into a beacon of hope, justice, and opportunity for countless individuals across her community. Born in Marion, Alabama, to Roland and Cornelia Scott Osburn, Christine Jackson was shaped early by faith, family, and a deep sense of responsibility to others. Her upbringing, rooted in church and community, instilled in her the values that would guide her life's work. She pursued higher education in home economics and carried those skills with her as tools for empowerment and service. Early on, Mrs. Jackson proved she was a trailblazer, yet another reminder of her resilience and perseverance as a Black woman of her generation. In 1963, she and her husband, the late Reverend Dr. Eddie L. Jackson, Sr., made their way to Charleston, South Carolina, where her journey with the YWCA began humbly with teaching a sewing class. What followed was nothing short of transformation. In 1966, she assumed leadership of a segregated institution during one of the most pivotal periods in our Nation's history. With quiet strength and steady determination, she helped guide the YWCA through the turbulence of the civil rights struggle, ensuring that the Y's mission aligned with the principles of equality and inclusion. Under her visionary leadership, the YWCA of Greater Charleston became a cornerstone of the community. Mrs. Jackson championed programs that registered voters, supported young mothers, and provided educational and leadership opportunities for youth. She helped establish initiatives such as the Tribute to Women in Industry (TWIN), elevating the contributions of women across the region, and played a central role in creating Charleston's annual Martin Luther King, Jr., commemorations--ensuring that Dr. King's legacy would live on in both word and action. Her influence extended far beyond organizational leadership. During the 1969 Charleston Hospital Strike, the YWCA served as a meeting place for those seeking justice, and Mrs. Jackson stood among those committed to advancing civil rights. She was connected personally and historically to this movement, sharing close ties to the family of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and carrying forward the spirit of service and sacrifice that defined that era. Even in retirement, Mrs. Jackson remained a guiding force, ever hopeful and steadfast in her belief that ``the good in people will always outweigh the bad.'' Her life's work was made possible not only by her leadership but also by her unique ability to bring people together in the service of a greater cause. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children, Moshe Rashad and Kim Jackson; her bonus son, Jeremy Lamar Jackson; and a host of grandchildren, family, and friends who will carry her legacy forward. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in honoring the remarkable life of Mrs. Christine Osburn Jackson. She was a trailblazer, a servant leader, and a pillar of her community. Her legacy of service, justice, and faith will continue to inspire generations to come. [[Page E248]] ____________________”

2026-03-20 · Civil Rights

“Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Reverend Charcey Priester, Sr., who is celebrating the 20th anniversary of service as pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Reverend Priester has provided steadfast leadership to his congregation, guiding the church with vision, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to faith and community. Since becoming pastor in 2005, Reverend Priester has led St. Paul Baptist Church through a remarkable period of spiritual, physical, and financial growth. Under his leadership, the church's membership has increased tremendously, reflecting the strength of his ministry and the welcoming spirit of the congregation. As the church expanded, Reverend Priester introduced an additional Impact Service to ensure that even more individuals could feel welcome to visit and worship. Reverend Priester's leadership has also been marked by a bold vision and careful stewardship. In 2007, the church purchased 46 acres of land that would become the site of a new sanctuary for the growing congregation. In April 2010, the members of St. Paul Baptist Church caravanned to their new church home--a beautiful sanctuary capable of seating 700 worshippers and a banquet hall that accommodates 300 guests. This milestone serves as a testament to Reverend Priester's leadership and the faith of the church family. Throughout his tenure, Reverend Priester has strengthened the congregation by establishing and revitalizing numerous programs. These include a Minister-in-Training program, three-night revival workshop services, the Men's and Women's Ministries, as well as membership in the National Baptist Association. His ministry has also focused on serving the broader Orangeburg community. St. Paul Baptist Church has implemented a grief reconciliation ministry for widows and widowers, organized a Girl Scout troop and a 9th Grade Character Academy, and reactivated the Health Ministry. Through its Missionary Society, the church provides meals and clothing to those in need, reflecting a deep commitment to compassion and outreach. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in congratulating Reverend Charcey Priester, Sr., on this important milestone. We also recognize the love and support of his wife, Minister Sarah Priester, and their children, Charcey Priester, Jr., and Majesty. May Reverend Priester continue to inspire and uplift his congregation and community for many years to come. ____________________”

2026-03-05 · Government Reform