We are deeply saddened by the loss of Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald.  We lost a dear friend.  America lost a true fighter.

Rep. Juanita Millender-McDonald
Congresswoman Millender-McDonald was a pacesetter on numerous fronts. She was the first African American woman in history to hold the chairmanship of the powerful Committee on House Administration; the first African American woman to serve on the Carson City Council; the first woman to hold the chairmanship of the powerful Insurance and Revenue & Taxation Committees of the California State Assembly in her first term; the first African American woman to give the national Democratic response to President Bush’s weekly radio address; the first Democratic chair of the Congressional Caucus for Women’s issues; and the first to be named Honorary Curator of the Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach.

In her role on the Committee on House Administration, Congresswoman Millender-McDonald called the first election reform field hearing in history as she investigated widespread voter irregularities and disenfranchisement in Ohio.

In addition, she worked with former Secretary of State Madeline Albright and Ambassador John Miller on human trafficking and women’s rights issues around the world.  She had spoken out against genocide in Darfur, Cambodia, and other regions where human rights are violated.

Congresswoman Millender-McDonald was recently rated as one of the five most effective Members of Congress in a University of California study because of her ability to work across the aisle to pass legislation.

Congresswoman Millender-McDonald’s legacy in fighting for justice and equality at home and abroad will be remembered.

On behalf of all Democrats, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Congresswoman Millender-McDonald’s family and friends. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Eric C. Bauman
Chair
Los Angeles County Democratic Party