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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1160-E1161]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL BAUER
______
HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY
of illinois
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of
Michael Bauer, a larger than life, beloved Chicagoan who made an impact
on the most powerful American leaders as well as the most humble and
vulnerable people.
Michael Bauer was only 66 years old when he passed away after a
battle with cancer on August 29th. On September 3rd, hundreds gathered
at Anshe Emet Synagogue on Chicago's north side to pay tribute to
Michael and hear from some of the people whose lives were deeply
affected by this passionate and exuberant activist.
Speakers included Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, a long-time and very
close friend, who Michael worked day and night to help elect, as well
as Senator Dick Durbin, a friend and political ally. Governor JB
Pritzker was in attendance along with several Members of Congress,
including me, and many members of the State Legislature as well as
officials at the County and local level.
Michael had a law degree and an MBA, but his real passions were
fighting for the rights of the LGBTQ community, Holocaust Remembrance
and progressive politics. As a gay man, he began his activism during
the ravaging days of the AIDS epidemic, but he never stopped fighting
to end all forms of discrimination. He worked to change laws at every
level of government to assure the right of gay couples to marry and the
rights of transgender people, among other issues.
Both of Michael's parents were Holocaust survivors, and he and his
brother Jerry grew up without grandparents, aunts and uncles or
cousins. Poignantly, Michael's beloved mother Tema Bauer, 103 years
old, was at the funeral of her younger son. Not surprisingly, Michael
played an important role in the establishment of the Illinois Holocaust
Museum & Education Center in Skokie, Illinois, a city that is home to
many survivors.
And Michael was deeply involved in politics, raising money and
campaigning for his chosen candidates. His endorsement was heavily
sought by Democratic candidates, but each had to pledge support for
Michael's priorities, including protecting women's reproductive rights.
For nearly four decades, Michael shared his life with his partner and
husband Roger Simon. They were inseparable, particularly going through
the difficult phases of Michael's illness--Roger always at his side,
always lovingly caring for his every need.
Michael was a dear, dear friend of mine. My husband and I loved to be
in the same room with Michael and Roger, often watching Michael command
the space--always forcefully making a point, or making a joke and being
the force of nature that he was. He will be deeply missed.
[[Page E1161]]
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