TheGrio’s 100: Donna Edwards, Democrat pushing service and science in DC

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While other congressmen cite their voting records for proof of their convictions, Rep. Donna Edwards can point to her police record. In 2009, the Maryland Democrat was arrested in front of the Sudanese embassy for protesting the removal of aid workers from the war-torn nation. But this is just one of the many issues on Edward’s agenda.

Donna Edwards is making history … as one of the boldest liberal Democrats in Washington. Since swearing in to Congress in 2008, Edwards has advocated for issues from a global- to state-level, raised awareness of human rights abuses in the Arab world and pushed to expand meal subsidies for kids from low-income families. She’s also secured more than $1.1 million of economic stimulus funds for adding green infrastructure to Edmonston, Maryland, a small town in her home district.

Now a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the Committee on Science and Technology and vice chair of two subcommittees, Donna Edwards is rapidly becoming one of the most influential female voices on green infrastructure and technology in Congress.

WATCH REP. DONNA EDWARDS DISCUSS THE TAXES DEBATE:
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What’s next for Donna?

With her involvement on the Science and Technology committee, and as an alum of the NASA community, Edwards looks forward to taking on the challenge of investing in education and innovation for a 21st century global economy.

Who inspires Donna?

“In addition to my parents, two of my greatest inspirations without question are Barbara Jordan and Shirley Chisholm,” Edwards told theGrio. “I am proud to carry the spirit, tenacity, and intellect of Sojourner Truth and all those on whose shoulders I stand. At an early age I learned that a young, African American-woman can become that to which she sets her mind.”

A favorite quote …

“We as public servants must set an example for the rest of the nation. It is hypocritical for the public official to admonish and exhort the people to uphold the common good if we are derelict in upholding the common good. More is required.” – Barbara Jordan, 1976 Democratic National Convention Keynote Address

A little-known fact …

In 1969, Brooklyn Democrat Shirley Chisholm became the first African-American woman to serve in Congress; Edwards is the 28th.

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