Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House

(May 16–22, 2021)

Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House (May 16–22, 2021)

Tuesday, Madam Speaker joined Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Chairwoman Judy Chu and House Democrats for a press conference to celebrate the passage of the bipartisan COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act,which strengthens our nation’s defenses against hate crimes. On Wednesday, Speaker Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Schumer and other Members of Congress held a bill enrollment ceremony for Representative Grace Meng and Senator Mazie Hirono’s COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, sending this vital legislation to the President’s desk. Madam Speaker later joined Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro, Chairman Bennie Thompson and Chairwoman Zoe Lofgren for a press conference on legislation to establish an independent, bipartisan 9/11-style Commission to investigate the January 6th insurrection, as well as provide emergency security supplemental funding to secure the Capitol against future violent attacks. Thursday morning, Speaker Pelosi held her weekly press conference in the Capitol to highlight the urgent need to Build Back Better with the American Jobs Plan and American Families Plan. In the afternoon, Madam Speaker welcomed His Excellency Moon Jae-in, President of the Republic of Korea, for a photo opportunity and bipartisan leadership meeting.

Take a look at this week’s behind-the-scenes photos:

May 18

“Over 6,600 incidents of anti-AAPI attacks in all 50 states have been reported in the past year. I’ve seen the pain. This epidemic of anti-AAPI bigotry is a challenge to the conscience of our country, which demands bold, effective action,” Madam Speaker stated. “[This] AAPI Heritage Month, let us honor the AAPI community’s contribution with action, ensuring every person can live with safety, dignity and hope.”

Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House (May 16–22, 2021)

May 19

Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House (May 16–22, 2021)

This strong bipartisan step will strengthen our defenses against anti-AAPI violence and make it quicker and easier to prevent, report and combat hate crimes, which will make a significant difference to address hate crimes in America — not only during this pandemic, but for years to come.

Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House (May 16–22, 2021)

The House of Representatives passed, in a strong bipartisan way, a National Commission to investigate the January 6th terrorist attack. It’s time to set aside partisan politics and come together as Americans. Congress has a clear and urgent responsibility to come to the truth of what happened during the deadly attack on our temple of democracy and ensure that it can never happen again. Proud to stand with my colleagues in support of this bold, necessary action.

Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House (May 16–22, 2021)

May 20

This has been an important week for justice and security in our country.

Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House (May 16–22, 2021)

“It is important to know that this legislation was done in a record time. You probably don’t know, but the legislation for 9/11 Commission — now, 9/11/2001 — was signed into law November 27, 2002, more than 14 months later. We are very pleased that this has a much accelerated pace to it, and we are eager to get it to the President’s desk,” stated Speaker Pelosi, as she displayed an endorsement statement from the 9/11 commission cochairs.

Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House (May 16–22, 2021)

“We welcome you back, eager to hear from you about issues of concern to both of our countries. Our relationship is one that is a security one, but also a personal one. We are blessed in the United States with many Korean Americans, including on my own staff. And I know the value of contribution that they make, especially as a Californian.”

Madam Speaker escorts His Excellency Moon Jae-in through the halls of the Capitol as they head to their bipartisan meeting.

Madam Speaker: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the U.S. Speaker of the House (May 16–22, 2021)