[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 176 (Wednesday, November 14, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2417]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          MOURNING THE LOSS OF CONGRESSMAN AUGUSTUS F. HAWKINS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 14, 2007

  Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of 
former Representative Augustus F. Hawkins. Congressman Hawkins served 
in this chamber for 28 years, and I offer my condolences to his family 
and friends after his passing this past weekend at the age of 100.
  Congressman Hawkins was dedicated to public service throughout his 
life. Beginning in 1935 as a California State Representative, he served 
the people of Los Angeles for 28 years. In 1962, Augustus Hawkins made 
a monumental breakthrough in civil rights history, becoming the first 
African-American elected to Congress from the State of California.
  During his tenure in the House of Representatives, Congressman 
Hawkins continued to lead the way for the American Civil Rights 
Movement. In 1970, he and several of his colleagues joined together to 
found the Congressional Black Caucus. Then, in just his second term in 
Congress, he introduced and sponsored Title VII of the Civil Rights Act 
of 1964. This ground-breaking legislation created the Equal Employment 
Opportunity Commission and outlawed discrimination in the workplace 
based on race.
  For over half a century, Congressman Hawkins dedicated his life to 
our Nation with steadfast dedication, humility, and geniality. In the 
hearts of the residents of Los Angeles, and anyone who was ever 
influenced by his presence, Augustus Hawkins' legacy of leadership and 
courage will remain for years to come. Congressman Hawkins is succeeded 
by his two stepdaughters, Barbara A. Hammond and Brenda L. Stevenson, 
and a stepson, Michael A. Taylor. I extend my deepest condolences and 
gratitude to the family of Congressman Hawkins.

                          ____________________