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“TRIBUTE TO THE LATE HONORABLE RON BROWN” mentioning the U.S. Dept. of Commerce was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E563 on April 17, 1996.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
TRIBUTE TO THE LATE HONORABLE RON BROWN
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speech of
HON. RONALD V. DELLUMS
of california
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, April 16, 1996
Mr. DELLUMS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a dear friend, a visionary, a dream-maker, and trailblazer; the Honorable Ronald H. Brown. Although I am deeply saddened by his sudden passing, I am inspired and encouraged by the legacy Ron has left for all citizens of the United States. Ron Brown was not only a personal friend, but a friend of our country.
Elected the first African American Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, he utilized his experience and successes, in reuniting the Democratic Party and ensuring a victory for President Clinton.
As the first African American Secretary of Commerce, Ron not only pursued the expansion of American trade opportunities, but also sought to extend the American Dream to improve the quality of life for all people throughout the world. His vision for the Department of Commerce included providing economic opportunities for all Americans, opening and expanding markets globally, and generating jobs through his national export strategy which allows U.S. companies--big and small--to maximize their export potential. In addition, he wanted to ensure an enhanced technology base and infrastructure and utilization and growth for the Information Superhighway. In doing so, he transformed America into an export superpower, creating over $80 billion in foreign agreements for U.S. businesses. A champion of civil rights, he fought for diversity within the Department, as well as increased opportunities for minority-owned businesses.
Ron was a trailblazer. The list of accomplishments which inspires not only African Americans, but all working men, women, and minorities is commendable. He, as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was an effective communicator, a passionate civil rights advocate, keen political strategist, skilled negotiator, and compassionate bridge builder. A man of action, Ron Brown not only dreamt, but more importantly, realized his dreams for himself and others.
I will personally miss our heart to heart conversations and political discussions, Ron's enthusiasm for life, and most of all, his infectious smile.
As my friend, the Reverend Jesse Jackson so eloquently described him,
``We must remember Ron Brown--freedom fighter, social servant, patriot, dream-maker . . . A monument to his success is opening the door for coming generations.'' We must always hold a special place in our hearts for Ron Brown. Ron was truly a man for all seasons who we will sorely miss. Thank you, Ron, for all you've done. We love you, brother.
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