JUNE 23, 2023

Dear Fourth District Constituent,

This week in Washington, I led House Appropriations Democrats in the fight against Republicans’ divisive, harmful Defense Appropriations bill that includes social policy riders discriminating against women, LGBTQ+ people, and others.

Throughout our history, expanding opportunities for more Americans to serve has strengthened our armed forces and pushed our nation forward. But the provisions added by the majority do not reflect the military we have today, nor do they honor the struggle it took to build it. These unnecessary provisions divide, not unite, and they will have harmful consequences for recruitment, retention, and readiness—and therefore, for our national security. Read or watch my full remarks.

Juneteenth Celebrations

Earlier in the week, I was so glad to join Juneteenth celebrations!

I spoke with folks at the JK Movement’s Reunite, Renew, Rally on Saturday to join in celebration of Freedom Day and hear the latest updates on the JK Movement’s programming providing mentorship for youth in the metro area.

Congresswoman McCollum speaks at Rondo Juneteenth Celebration; With Saint Paul Firefighter and Daughter of Rondo, Brittany Baker Hutchinson; With Marvin Anderson, President of Rondo Center of Diverse Expression and Board Chair of ReConnect Rondo

Monday’s Juneteenth Celebration organized by the Rondo Center for Diverse Expression was an opportunity to celebrate emancipation and recommit to keeping up the fight for equity and justice, ending racial disparities and creating a bright future for Black Americans. Thank you for having me!

Communities in Mourning

Congresswoman McCollum with Captain Parsons, circa March 2012

Amidst the joy and celebrations of summer, sadly many are mourning as we experienced several difficult losses recently. I spoke on the House floor on Wednesday to pay tribute to fallen Saint Paul Fire Captain Chris Parsons, who died last week at just 48—a deep and profound loss for his loved ones, fellow firefighters, and our entire community. I entered a Statement into the Official Congressional Record as a permanent commemoration of his years of service saving lives. You can read it here.

I also want to acknowledge the devastating loss of five young women in Minneapolis last week. These women were preparing for a wedding—what should have been a joyous occasion—and instead they lost their lives. My prayers and deepest condolences are with the families of Sabiriin Ali, Sahra Gesaade, Salma Abdikadir, Sagal Hersi, and Siham Adam. My heart goes out to our entire Somali American community during this especially difficult time.

Neighborhood Office Hours

My staff will be at Sun Ray Library on the East Side of St. Paul holding Neighborhood Office Hours on Tuesday, June 27 from 10am-noon. If you need help with a federal agency, make an appointment or stop by.

Some examples would include help with: Social Security, Medicare, Veterans Affairs, Immigration, U.S. Service Academies, Federal Student Aid, SBA Programs, the IRS, and Passports. Learn more.

As always, don’t hesitate to reach out with your policy opinion or if you need help with a federal agency. Thank you for being an informed and engaged constituent.

Sincerely,

Betty McCollum
Member of Congress