Budzinski Honors Life of Illinois Icon Barbara Flynn Currie

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) delivered remarks on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives honoring the life and legacy of former Illinois State Representative Barbara Flynn Currie. A trailblazer in state politics, Currie was the first woman to serve as Illinois House Majority Leader and went on to become the longest-serving woman in the history of the General Assembly.

WATCH: Budzinski Honors Life of Illinois Icon Barbara Flynn Currie

Budzinski’s remarks can be found below:

Today, I rise to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Barbara Flynn Currie. Barbara was nothing short of extraordinary – a true trailblazer in every sense.

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She made history as the first woman to serve as Illinois House Majority Leader and became the longest-serving woman in the General Assembly. Her leadership didn’t just break barriers – it reshaped what leadership could look like.

As a founding mother of Illinois Women in Leadership, also known as IWIL, Barbara inspired me and countless others to pursue a career in public service.

She was a force who opened doors for generations of women in Illinois politics. She led with integrity, always putting people before politics and proving that the government can work effectively when guided by principle and purpose.

That is the kind of leadership we need now more than ever. Barbara will be deeply missed, but her example will continue to guide and inspire us for years to come.

Thank you and I yield back.

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