Black Congresswomen Honor Millender-McDonald

By Robert "Rob" Redding Jr.

Publisher

April 24, 2007, 9 a.m. - Reps. Barbara Lee and Stephanie Tubbs Jones yesterday praised the work of House Administration Chairwoman Juanita Millender-McDonald, who died of cancer this weekend.

"Madame speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise this evening to offer my condolences to the family of our beloved Juanita Millender-McDonald," Lee she said during a speech on the House floor as part of a Congressional Black Caucus tribute. 

"She was a woman of distinction and class, which brought her many complements," the California Democrat said. "But Juanita was also a woman of substance with a keen intellect, a big heart and a passionate sense of justice. 

"She worked on many issues relating to the empowerment of women, on children's and orphans' issues, HIV and AIDS and a host of issues which history will record as improving the lives of millions.  Her annual AIDS walk was a source of pride and joy, as she shared with us the do's and don'ts and how to put our own together so we could replicate her successes in our own communities.

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Rep. Jones, an Ohio Democrat, also released this statement: 

"I wish to extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald," said Jones. "When I first came to Capitol Hill Congresswoman Millender-McDonald was co-chair of the women's caucus. We would often share stories about being mothers and the challenges of raising our sons. She was always immaculately dressed and carried herself with dignity.  

"I have had the pleasure of working with Congresswoman Millender-McDonald on a variety of issues including voting reform. Following the 2004 elections, she was instrumental in organizing hearings in both Washington and Ohio to address voting irregularities. Her commitment to the people of the 37th district of California and all Americans was tireless and unwavering. I am extremely proud to have served with a woman of such great strength and character. Even in her illness she represented her constituents as a Member of Congress and was an asset to this institution. 

"It is my hope that we will celebrate her legacy through service to others."

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