California’s first African American congressman died Saturday in Bethesda, MD.  He was 100 years old.  Hawkins was first elected to the California state legislature in 1935 and became the first African American to represent California in the House of Representatives in 1962, serving until 1991.  He was the oldest living former congressman.

While in office, Hawkins was instrumental in legislation like the Civil Rights Act (sponsoring Title VII- the equal employment section), the Job Training Partnership Act, and the Humphrey-Hawkins Full Employment Act.  He was also a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus.

When he left office, his seat passed to Rep. Maxine Waters who said he was “the author of some of the most significant legislation ever passed in the House . . . particularly in the areas of education and labor. He cared about poor and working people.”

“It was Gus Hawkins who gave us the credibility,” said Rep. Diane Watson, D-Los Angeles. “It was Gus Hawkins who gave us the ideas. . . . He has left a sterling legacy.”

It’s a good opportunity to remember the good things government can do.