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Congresswoman Waters Remembers Former California State Senator Teresa P. Hughes

November 14, 2011

Washington – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) issued the following statement upon the passing of her former colleague and friend, Sen. Teresa Hughes:

"I am saddened to learn of the passing of former California State Senator Teresa Hughes.

Teresa Hughes was a close friend and colleague. We both served in the California State Assembly in the 1970s and 1980s. When Teresa was elected to the State Senate she represented the 25th District which included many of the same cities and communities in my Congressional District.

We shared many exciting times working together in the California Assembly. Teresa was only the second African American woman elected to the Assembly. It was a time when the Women's Movement began opening new opportunities for women.

Teresa was a strong supporter of then-State Senator Mervyn Dymally, for whom she worked prior to her election to the California Legislature. I recall the community rallying around her candidacy for the 47th Assembly District. They were proud to elect a professional educator committed to expanding opportunities for our community.

I know how dedicated Teresa was to serving the people in South Central and Southeast Los Angeles. She was committed to strengthening the educational system for children in California. Teresa worked hard to improve the quality of life for low-income families, seniors and people of color.

I will miss Teresa and am thankful for the time we spent working together. My prayers go out to her family and the many that loved her."

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