Congresswoman Barbara Lee Mourns the Loss of Dr. C. Diane Howell
For Immediate Release
December 28, 2008
Contact: Ricci Graham
(510) 763-0370
Oakland, CA – Today, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-09) issued the following statement upon learning of the untimely passing of her friend and community leader, Dr. C. Diane Howell:
"It is with profound sadness that I offer my condolences to the family of Dr. C. Diane Howell.
"Dr. Howell was a beacon of optimism and hope, particularly for the owners of minority businesses in Oakland and throughout the Bay Area. She sought to provide guidance and counsel through her publication The Black Business Listings, which served as a tremendous resource of information for owners of minority businesses throughout Oakland.
"I had the privilege to address the readers of her publication by writing monthly columns for The Black Business Listing and was always happy to be a part of her ongoing efforts to support and encourage such a vital part of our community.
"Dr. Howell was more than an advocate and supporter of minority business; she was active in the political arena as well. Dr. Howell worked tirelessly in the days leading up to the election for President-elect Barack Obama, traveling throughout the West in an effort to urge our neighbors of the importance of being engaged during this important moment.
"As such, Dr. Howell played a critical role in American history and she, like many of us, was overcome with joy and pride in Obama's successful bid for the presidency.
"Dr. Howell was a great friend and human being. I was proud to call her my sister, and I will miss her kindness, wise counsel and her love. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, her staff and those in the business community whose lives were enriched by Dr. Howell's unwavering commitment to her community.
"She will be missed terribly by all who knew her.
"May she rest in peace."
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