Congresswoman Barbara Lee has been representing California’s 13th District since 1998. She is the highest ranking African American woman in Democratic Leadership, serving as Co-Chair of the Policy and Steering Committee. She also serves on the Budget Committee and the powerful Appropriations Committee, which oversees all federal government spending.
Her father was a veteran of two wars and her mother broke many glass ceilings and racial barriers. After grammar school, Congresswoman Lee moved to San Fernando, California and worked with the local NAACP to integrate her high school cheerleading squad.
Protecting civil rights is one of the most important responsibilities for Members of Congress. People have a right to participate in our government and our society without fear, oppression or discrimination.
Unfortunately, some are working to turn back the clock and undo the hard won victories of our nation’s civil rights heroes. Congresswoman Lee is working to preserve and expand protections for all Americans, empower voters and ensure that our nation’s civil rights legacy is protected.