The publication is reproduced in full below:
CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF IRENE B. WEST
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HON. AMI BERA
of california
in the house of representatives
Friday, May 7, 2021
Mr. BERA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the life of Irene B. West. Mrs. West was born on July 3, 1932 in Crowley, Louisiana and she graduated Valedictorian of her high school class. She moved to Nashville, Tennessee where she met her late husband. Mrs. West received her Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University Sacramento (CSUS) and obtained a Master of Arts degree from the University of San Francisco.
Mrs. West, whose older sisters were teachers, was hired as the first black teacher in Elk Grove, CA in 1962. With virtually no representation in the area, she showcased true dedication to her career in education during the era of the Civil Rights movement. During her 27 years in service of the Elk Grove Community, she taught at James McKee and Florin Elementary schools and then served as principal at John Reith and Cosumnes River Elementary schools.
As a mother of four, Mrs. West was not only dedicated to her students and their education but raised talented and devoted children while working full time. In fact, The Sacramento Observer named her Mother of the Year in 1963. All her children excelled in their chosen fields of study, and two followed in her footsteps teaching at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Sunday school. We know she would be proud of their future endeavors as her children continue her legacy.
Because of her impact as a mother, educator, a wife and a pillar to society, Mrs. West has left a lasting legacy for the city of Elk Grove and will continue to inspire young women of color for generations to come.
I want to extend my condolences to the West family, and to everyone Mrs. West positively affected throughout her lifetime. I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the life of Irene B. West for her work in our community and her impact on our educational system.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 79
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