Recognizing Scott Blades

Floor Speech

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Mrs. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Scott Blades of Tucson, Arizona, for more than three decades of leadership and service to individuals living with HIV in Pima County.

At the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis, when stigma and fear left many isolated, Scott responded with compassion and resolve, bringing community members together to provide care, dignity, and connection.

In 1994, he founded the Tucson Interfaith HIV/AIDS Network, building a powerful model that united faith communities, volunteers, and service providers to support those in need. Under his leadership, he recruited thousands of volunteers and, together, TIHAN served more than 1,600 people living with HIV, improving health outcomes, reducing stigma, and strengthening the community.

Scott Blades' career reflects the very best of public service, a lasting commitment to dignity, equity, and care for others.

I ask the people of the Seventh Congressional District to join me in honoring his extraordinary contributions to southern Arizona.

I thank my friend Scott for his service.

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