Former Congresswoman Cardiss Collins dead at 81

Created on Thursday, 07 February 2013 15:53 Last Updated on Thursday, 07 February 2013 15:53 Published on Friday, 08 February 2013 07:06 Written by Associated Press Hits: 762

She voiced disapproval of President Jimmy Carter's civil rights record and criticized the president for not working hard enough to get congressional support to pass legislation making the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. a federal holiday. The holiday was created during the administration of President Ronald Reagan.

"A pioneer of her time, she was an effective policymaker and representative, where she set the benchmark for many members of Congress to emulate," said Chicago Democratic Rep. Bobby Rush.

In addition to Kevin Collins, she is survived by granddaughter Candice Collins.

AP reporters Caryn Rousseau and Sophia Tareen contributed to this report.