Women's History Month 2026
Honoring Influential Black Women
Barbara Lee
(1946– )
Mayor • Legislator • Peace Advocate
Barbara Lee is a longtime public servant whose leadership has shaped California and national policy for decades. After representing Oakland and the East Bay in the U.S. House of Representatives for many years, Lee was elected Mayor of Oakland, continuing her lifelong commitment to community empowerment and economic opportunity. Known nationally for her principled leadership, Lee has championed healthcare access, poverty reduction, and peace initiatives throughout her career.
Quick Facts
- Born: July 16, 1946 — El Paso, TX
- Mayor of Oakland
- Former U.S. Representative for California
- Former Chair, Congressional Black Caucus
- Advocate for economic justice and peace initiatives