[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 81 (Wednesday, May 16, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1064]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE MEMORY OF THE HONORABLE JUANITA MILLENDER-McDONALD

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JO BONNER

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 16, 2007

  Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today 
to honor the memory of former California Congresswoman Juanita 
Millender-McDonald and her lifetime of dedication to the people of 
California and the United States. I was deeply saddened to learn our 
colleague passed away so suddenly. We have not only lost a wonderful 
friend but an individual who during her lifetime made countless 
contributions toward the betterment of our Nation.
  A native of Alabama--there is some dispute as to whether she was born 
in Gee's Bend or Birmingham--Juanita's ties to her home state remained 
strong throughout her life. In fact, just a few short years ago, she 
was extremely involved with her family reunion which was held in 
Monroeville, in Alabama's First District. She was always so very proud 
of her family and naturally, they are so very proud of her.
  Juanita began her career as a teacher in Los Angeles. She was also 
the editor-writer for the Los Angeles Unified School District and 
worked as a manuscript editor for Images, a textbook designed to 
enhance the self-esteem of young women. She began her political career 
in 1990, when she was elected to the Cason City Council. Just 2 years 
later, she was elected to the California State Assembly.
  In 1996, Juanita was elected to represent the 37th District of 
California in the United States House of Representatives. Throughout 
her seven terms, she was a champion of election reform and women's 
health issues. She made history in the 110th Congress when she was 
named chairwoman of the House Administration Committee becoming the 
first African American woman to chair a House committee.
  We are privileged to have known and worked with such a passionate and 
loyal individual. Juanita will be greatly missed and always remembered. 
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering a 
dedicated public servant.
  Juanita Millender-McDonald will be deeply missed by her family--her 
husband, James McDonald Jr., her five children, and five 
grandchildren--as well as the countless friends she leaves behind. Our 
thoughts and prayers are with them all at this difficult time.

                          ____________________