Waters, Maxine (1938–)

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Waters, Maxine (1938–)

American politician. Born Aug 15, 1938, in St. Louis, Missouri; California State University, Los Angeles, BA, 1970; m. Sidney Williams (diplomat); children: 2.

Was a teacher and volunteer in the Head Start program; elected to California State Assembly (1976) and re-elected every 2 years (1977–91); representing California's 35th District, elected to Congress (1990); drew attention to allegations of CIA involvement in drug trafficking in South Central Los Angeles and rose to prominence after Los Angeles riots (1992); served as chair of Congressional Black Caucus (1997–98); appointed chief deputy whip of Democratic Party and served on many committees; co-founded Black Women's Forum and founded several civil-rights and community development organizations; elected (2002) to her 7th term and named co-chair of House Democratic Steering Committee; noted for support of black business endeavors, encouragement of youth and women, championing of environmental concerns, and work among black communities in Los Angeles.