Posted on 11/14/2023
On Nov. 14, Councilmember Price helped lead a special City Council presentation to celebrate the remarkable achievements and lasting impact of the Honorable Diane Watson, an iconic political figure who served as a U.S. Congresswoman and foreign Ambassador to Micronesia.
Throughout her extensive career spanning decades, Congresswoman Watson, who represented California's 33rd Congressional District, passionately advocated for the rights of people of color and worked tirelessly to champion social justice, healthcare access, education, and various humanitarian causes.
Ms. Watson’s commitment to education was evident when she became the first Black woman on the LAUSD Board of Education in 1975. She would go on to shatter the proverbial glass ceiling once again in 1978 by becoming the first Black woman elected to the California State Senate.
“Congresswoman Watson’s historic milestones of firsts opened doors for underrepresented communities and paved the way for more diverse representation in politics,” said Councilmember Price. “This iconic political figure stands as a mighty 'shero' whose legacy will forever inspire and empower others, serving as a shining example of embracing the principles of compassion and community."
The special recognition in Chambers on Tuesday was in honor of the former Congresswoman's 90th birthday, and also includes a proposal to rename a portion of Coliseum Place from Victoria Avenue to Crenshaw Boulevard to “Diane Watson Way.”
