Akron Reporter

Rep. Emilia Strong Sykes, currently serving in the U.S. Congress representing Ohio’s 13th district, shared several updates on her social media account on February 4, 2025. Her tweets covered topics ranging from a historical reflection on journalism to current legislative efforts aimed at improving rail safety.

In a tweet posted on February 4, 2025, Rep. Sykes highlighted the career journey of Fitzpatrick, who secured his first job at the Akron Beacon Journal in 1956 as the only Black reporter on staff. She noted his "steadfast determination to secure a career in journalism - amid adversity and multiple rejections of his resume." The full post can be viewed here.

Later that day, Rep. Sykes addressed public safety concerns regarding train derailments. She emphasized that "keeping communities safe from train derailments isn’t a partisan issue – it’s a human issue," announcing the re-introduction of the bipartisan RAIL Act aimed at holding negligent rail corporations accountable and preventing future incidents. More details are available here.

Following up on her earlier statement, Rep. Sykes provided additional information about the RAIL Act's provisions in another tweet on February 4, 2025. She explained that the legislation "enhances safety procedures for all trains carrying hazardous materials" and holds rail companies financially responsible for their actions while supporting communities affected by rail disasters. The call for congressional action can be found here.