Aretha Franklin Post Office Building

Floor Speech

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Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank Madam Chair for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3976, the bill sponsored by my colleague, Mrs. Lawrence, and by the members of the Michigan delegation.

This bill honors the ``Queen of Soul,'' Aretha Franklin, and her innumerable contributions to music. Her faith in Detroit and its people is what I remember as much as her voice. This legislation serves as a fitting tribute to her esteemed legacy.

Aretha Franklin grew up singing at the New Bethel Baptist Church with her father, Reverend C.L. Franklin. Aretha's father was a good and dear friend to John Dingell, helping him early in his career. The two of them fought side by side in the fifties and the sixties for civil rights legislation.

Aretha's career includes more than 20 Grammy Awards, the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

However, it is Aretha's message through music of respect, love, and faith that will stay with us for generations.

Today, I stand with my Michigan colleagues and urge every Member to honor Aretha Franklin's legacy. Her contributions to our country are deserving of this recognition, and maybe we need to have her up there, up there with John, ``say a little prayer'' for us.

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