Congresswoman Maxine Waters Laments Devastating Loss of Life, Destruction in Japan Following Earthquake-Triggered Tsunami

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), who represents a district with a strong Japanese-American community, issued the following statement today after an 8.9 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami devastated northern Japan, leaving hundreds dead, thousands missing, and infrastructure decimated:

"My heart goes out to the Japanese people during this time of unspeakable tragedy. I am encouraged by our government's steadfast support for Japan in its hour of need, enumerated by President Obama, Secretary Clinton, Speaker Boehner, Congresswoman Pelosi, and others. I stand ready and willing to do all I can to assist our government's response to alleviate the Japanese people's suffering.

"In my district, particularly in Gardena under the leadership of Mayor Paul Tanaka, there is a vibrant and active Japanese American community that greatly contributes to the multicultural fabric that makes Los Angeles a great place to live. I encourage them to reach out to my office and let me know how my staff and I can be of assistance to them as they seek information. Across the state, California is experiencing the impact of this disaster and the tsunami that raced across the Pacific Ocean. I am saddened to hear about significant damage in Northern California, injured persons, and at least one unconfirmed death.

"In honor of the victims from this great tragedy, let us work with our international partners to get Japan the supplies and assistance it needs to save the suffering and rebuild its cities."

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