Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Legislator Remarks topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Representative Frazier thanks colleagues, reflects on journey from south side of Chicago
Summary
On the legislative floor, Representative Frazier delivered an emotional speech thanking colleagues and staff, recounted growing up on the south side of Chicago and moving to rural Minnesota, and urged continued bipartisan cooperation and appreciation for public service.
Representative Frazier addressed the chamber after being recognized from Hennepin County, opening with thanks to the Speaker and colleagues and saying he wanted to "make sure that I said something today." He framed his remarks as gratitude for the opportunity to serve and for support from others along the way.
Frazier recounted his upbringing on the south side of Chicago and visits to his grandparents in the Delta, citing early influences that shaped his public life. He said he drew inspiration from Chicago's first Black mayor and the concept of the Rainbow Coalition, and noted that those experiences motivated him to seek public office.
Describing his move to Morris, Minnesota, Frazier said he experienced a culture shock and noticed fewer people who shared his background. He described driving to nearby towns such as Alexander, Wilmer and Fergus Falls for amenities and said residents in small towns want the same basic things'good jobs, education for children and dignity.
On the chamber's recent work, Frazier credited members on both sides of the aisle for coming together during difficult times. He referenced the budget work and the challenges of the COVID period, saying Republicans and Democrats "came in through tough times" and cooperated for the benefit of Minnesota.
Frazier thanked legislative staff and leaders for their support, saying their work helped prevent mistakes and enabled him to serve. He named family members in passing, mentioning his daughter, Maya Kalinda, and urged colleagues not to take moments of public service "for granted," closing with a call to "try to live in those moments."
