| Written by Sentinel News Service, on 08-13-2009 00:00 |
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Congresswoman Waters Honored by Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law Award Recognizes Her Accomplishments as Distinguished Civil Rights Advocate
Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) received the Distinguished Civil Rights Advocate Award from the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law today at the National Bar Association's 84th Annual Convention in San Diego, California. The Lawyers' Committee cited Congresswoman Waters' work as a public servant, an advocate on behalf of the poor and disenfranchised, and a mentor and role model for women and youth among its primary reasons for honoring her.
"I couldn't be happier or more humbled to be with you tonight and to accept The Distinguished Civil Rights Advocate Award," said Congresswoman Waters. "I have spent my entire life advocating on behalf of women, children, minorities, and the most at-risk individuals in our society because I have always known that it's the right thing to do. Although I never sought awards or recognition for this work, it is very special for me to receive this honor from an organization dedicated to protecting the rights of all."
The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law pays tribute to individuals whose leadership reflects an enduring commitment to protecting civil rights and promoting the dignity and worth of every human being regardless of race, gender, or social status. Past recipients of the award include former Detroit Mayor Dennis Archer, former Chair of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission Mary Frances Berry, National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial, and United States District Court Judge Thelton E. Henderson.
"I am particularly honored to stand among such great names in civil rights," said Congresswoman Waters. "I want to thank my friend Barbara Arnwine, Executive Director of the Lawyers' Committee, for nominating me and for her personal assistance in much of the work that I do in New Orleans and throughout the country."
"As a member of the House Committee on the Judiciary and as an active citizen involved in the African American and women's rights communities, there's no slowing down for me when it comes to promoting and protecting civil rights."
The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan organization formed in 1963 at the request of President John F. Kennedy to enlist private lawyers and law firms in civil rights law enforcement. Since that time, the Lawyers' Committee has been on the forefront of efforts to secure civil rights and improve race relations among Americans.
Founded in 1925, the National Bar Association is the nation's oldest and largest association of African American lawyers and judges. Last update: 08-13-2009 00:00
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