Congresswoman Waters' Statement on the Passing of Former Congresswoman Cardiss Collins

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) issued the following statement today in response to the passing of former Congresswoman Cardiss Collins:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Congresswoman Cardiss Collins. As the first African-American woman to serve in Congress from Illinois, and the second woman to serve as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Congresswoman Collins paved the way for minority women in Congress. I will cherish the opportunity I had to know and work with her.

For more than two decades, Congresswoman Collins served the people of Illinois with courage and dedication to the best interests of her constituents and our country.

A trailblazer and a true champion, she worked tirelessly on some of the most significant issues of our time including gender equality, and protecting the civil and economic rights of African-Americans in her community.

"I extend my condolences to her son, Kevin and her granddaughter, Candice. My thoughts and prayers are with them during their time of grief."

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