Congresswoman Waters Remembers Dr. Maya Angelou

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) released the following statement today marking the passing of Dr. Maya Angelou. She was 86 years old.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Dr. Maya Angelou, one of the most renowned and inspirational voices of our time. In a career that spanned over more than five decades, Maya was a celebrated author, poet, educator, producer, actress and filmmaker. She was a phenomenal woman who shared her wisdom with the world, inspiring countless individuals and teaching us how to reach unity in the midst of division.

"Maya was always very generous in responding to requests by her friends to make public appearances. I remember in response to a request from me to make an appearance at the Black Women's Forum in Los Angeles, she not only honored the request, but thrilled the audience by sharing her life experiences and encouraging the women to reflect on their own lives. Maya was a wise and spiritual woman who taught me valuable lessons about life and did not hesitate to compliment or criticize anyone.

"Maya was also much more than a poet; she was an influential leader during the civil rights movement. She fought for social and racial justice by promoting the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Martin Luther King, Jr. and through her work with the Organization of Afro-American Unity, led by Malcolm X.

"Dr. Angelou once said, 'I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Indeed, she truly left her mark on all who knew her and I know her presence will be missed. Our nation is grateful for the legacy she has left behind and it will live on through her words and actions. My thoughts and prayers are with her son, Guy Johnson, and her entire family during this difficult time. "

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