Community Ceremony Held

By Texas Metro News Team The 118th Congress didn’t begin as many anticipated in January, 2023. Airline tickets were purchased, hotel rooms reserved and it was off to the nation’s capital for the swearing of the 118th Class. For Jasmine Crockett, this would be her second ceremony as a representative after serving in the Texas House the previous two years. Texas was well represented to witness Rep. Crockett become only the second person to represent the 30th Congressional District, following in the footsteps of Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson who retired in 2022, after serving since the District was established 30 years ago. The historic moment was scheduled to happen immediately following the installation of the House Speaker on January 3; however that moment was delayed until January 7. Going into the process, no one could imagine that it would take days and 15 votes before U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy received the necessary votes. By then, many family friends and constituents had returned home, so it was only fitting that a “Community” ceremony was held in Dallas, at the Hall of State. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Whip Katherine Clark joined several dignitaries from across the country, including Congressman Marc Veasey, Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III of Friendship-West Baptist Church and Johnson, at the standing room only event. It was a humble Crockett who addressed the cheering crowd. “It was an honor to be sworn-in to the 118th Congress surrounded by loved ones and this beautiful community I am blessed to serve in Washington,” said Rep. Crockett. “Each member of our community has a role in not only my success, but in making this community stronger. “Each day I am fueled by this community’s support and genuine care for the common-good. I am proud of our movement and am committed to doing the good work to bring equity back to Texas’ 30th Congressional District.” During remarks, Clark, Johnson and Jeffries praised the freshman congresswoman, who was tapped by Johnson as her successor. Jeffries and Clark talked about the energetic, well-prepared young attorney who has already gained the respect of her peers. It is a position that Rep. Crockett does not take lightly. During her remarks she introduced her staff and talked about priorities at home and in Washington, like immigration and transportation; while also serving on the House Oversight Committee. Rep. Crockett also took time out to meet with Mayors of District 30. She represents portions of Dallas and Tarrant Counties —the cities of Dallas, Grand Prairie, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Lancaster, Duncanville, Glenn Heights, Hutchins, Wilmer, Arlington, Ovilla, and Seagoville. She said, “I remain steadfast in my dedication to ensuring the needs of this community are at the forefront of my work. This is only the beginning.”