Behold, the 21 Inspiring Black Women of Congress

Barbara Lee is a 70-year-old Democratic representative for California's 13th congressional district. Lee was elected to the position in 2013 and had previously served a separate district in the state since 1998. Before that, she was a member of different California state assemblies for many years.

In addition to having a successful political career, Lee received the Woman of Peace honor at the Global Exchange Human Rights Awards in 2003. She received the award for her extensive work with HIV/AIDS legislation. In 2005, Lee was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts.