Press Releases

Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) announced the House of Representatives has approved legislation posthumously awarding Shirley Chisholm with the Congressional Gold Medal. The bipartisan bill, cosponsored by Rep. Kennedy, commemorates Chisholm “in recognition of her activism, independence, and groundbreaking achievements in politics, including election as the first African American woman in Congress.”

(Rep. Kennedy speaking on the House floor.)

Kennedy celebrated Chisholm’s life and achievements in remarks on the House floor, saying in part, “It was here, in these halls and in this very chamber, that Shirley Chisholm advanced policies that provided healthy food options for mothers and their children, expanded child care, strengthened healthcare coverage, and much more. Shirley Chisholm’s famous declaration during her historic Presidential bid, “Unbought and Unbossed,” continues to resonate as a call for courage, authenticity, and integrity in public service. I am deeply honored to represent the district that serves as her final resting place at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo, New York….Her presence in our community is a powerful reminder of her enduring legacy. We are forever indebted to her for her service in advancing civil rights, women’s rights, and making our nation more equitable for all.”

Chisholm, who is nationally recognized as the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress as well as the first Black woman candidate to run for a major party’s nomination for President, lived in and is laid to rest in Western New York. She met her husband, Arthur Hardwick, Jr. in Albany while serving in the New York State Assembly and the couple made their home in Williamsville, New York. She passed away in 2005 at the age of 80 and is laid to rest in the Birchwood Mausoleum at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo. 

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