Congresswoman Barbara Lee

It is with a deep sense of gratitude to my constituents of the 12th congressional district that I end my 26 years in Congress and pass the baton to a great warrior woman, Lateefah Simon.

Together, as America’s most diverse community, we have raised our voices and pushed the envelope for peace, justice and equity. It has been the honor of a lifetime to provide constituent services, deliver federal investments to my district, speak out, and often times be the only one to take tough votes against the tide. I have, and will continue to, fight for working families, the middle class, low income and poor people.

I am thankful for my staff, Team Lee, who have worked tirelessly to support our efforts and our district. As I forge ahead, I wish you a bright future, always remembering it is our young people who deserve to inherit a clean planet and a peaceful world. Listen to them, for they speak with clarity and deserve our support. Thank you again for your trust and your support.

Our voice is our power. Let’s keep fighting for equity, justice, and peace.

With a nod to her mentor Shirley Chisholm, Rep. Barbara Lee exits Congress as a renegade herself Democratic Rep. Barbara Lee of California has always stood apart. She was the first Black student to integrate her Southern California cheerleading squad.

I’m deeply saddened by the terrible attack last night in New Orleans. This is heartbreaking news on what should have been a joyous New Year celebration.

I’m praying for all of the victims and their loved ones.

10 killed on Bourbon Street in New Orleans after suspect intentionally slams truck into crowd; dozens injured A man intentionally drove a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street as revelers were celebrating the new year, officials said. Sources told CBS News the driver is dead.

I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of President Jimmy Carter.

President Carter displayed a lifelong commitment to global peace, justice, and human rights. He inspired me and countless others. I send my condolences to his family, his loved ones, & all who loved him. May he now Rest in Peace with his wife, Rosalynn.

On the second day of , we honor self-determination—or kujichagulia in Swahili.
Kujichagulia symbolizes the fight for people of African descent to define, defend, and develop ourselves instead of letting others do it for us.

Wishing everyone in the East Bay, California, and across the country a very Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah.

May this holiday season be filled with joy, warmth, and time spent with your loved ones.

Congratulations to 12th grader Keshav Rangan on winning the Congressional App Challenge! His app – Shelter Search – is designed to help unhoused youth find personalized shelter recommendations by filtering options based on location, eligibility, and other factors.

Thank you to all of the participants. Your hard work, creativity, and talent will transform innovative ideas into meaningful solutions.

It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the East Bay in Congress the last 26 years. Tune in below as I reflect on my time in Congress on the House Floor:

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