Recognizing the Dedicated Public Service of Reverend Dr. Della J. Owens-Barber

Floor Speech

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Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the public service of Rev. Dr. Della J. Owens-Barber in advance of her fourth anniversary banquet as Senior Pastor at the Saint James Christian Church on December 7, 2025. Rev. Dr. Owens-Barber is a dedicated pastor, scholar, community leader, and advocate for spiritual and social transformation. Over the past decade, she has played a key role in the nationwide campaign to advance a powerful moral agenda to end poverty.

As National Security Director for Repairers of the Breach, Rev. Dr. Owens-Barber has been a steadfast leader of the Poor People's Campaign and has championed an agenda against poverty and inequality. At a recent Poor People Campaign's Moral March on Washington, D.C., she spoke on behalf of millions of Americans who are uninsured and underinsured. As a result of her unflinching leadership in the campaign to address the needs of poor Americans, she has been both praised for her determination and arrested for non-violent civil disobedience. She has been central to the outstanding work of both Repairers of the Breach and the Poor People's Campaign.

Rev. Dr. Owens-Barber is an accomplished leader in her ministry, developing robust programs that engage and empower senior citizens, organizing community food giveaways and promoting mental health awareness. She has also fostered intergenerational connection through worship, education and outreach.

Rev. Dr. Owens-Barber previously led a distinguished career in law enforcement, higher education, youth development and social justice leadership.

Rev. Dr. Owens-Barber earned advanced degrees in Criminal Justice and Theological Studies and a Doctor of Ministry. She continues to lead community service through the North Carolina Council of Churches where she serves on the Board of Directors, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and health advocacy networks. I am honored to recognize Rev. Dr. Della J. Owens-Barber on her fourth anniversary as Senior Pastor at the Saint James Christian Church and salute her for her passionate service to her community and our country.

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