Wave Staff Report
LOS ANGELES — The Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce will present its Chairman’s Award to U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters at the 32nd Economic Awards Dinner April 17 at the JW Marriott L.A. LIVE.
Now serving her 17th term in Congress, Waters is widely regarded as one of the most influential women in American politics and a steadfast advocate for economic equity. During more than four decades of public service, Waters has built a reputation as a fearless and outspoken champion for small businesses — particularly minority- and women-owned enterprises — through her leadership on the House Financial Services Committee.
Her legislative and policy achievements include securing billions of dollars in federal pandemic relief, strengthening community lending initiatives, and advancing policies designed to expand equitable access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs.
“It is my honor to present Congresswoman Waters with the Chairman’s Award,” said chamber Chairman Gene Hale. “She led the effort to provide $10 billion in federal funds, supporting up to $100 billion in new loans and investments.
“She also introduced the Fair Competition for Small Business Act of 2025 to protect small businesses from anti-competitive pricing by large retailers. I could go on and on. Congresswoman Waters has always been a champion for small business.”
Elected to Congress in 1991, Waters made history as the first woman and first African American to serve as chair of the House Financial Services Committee. She remains an integral member of the Congressional Democratic leadership, serving on the Steering and Policy Committee and as co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease.
Waters is also a founding member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and a member and former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.
The Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce’s annual Economic Awards Dinner recognizes individuals, corporations and public officials who work to advance the American business enterprise. For more than three decades, the event has honored leaders whose advocacy, innovation, and investment have strengthened small businesses — the backbone of the U.S. economy.
Small businesses account for nearly half of private-sector employment nationwide and play a critical role in driving local economic growth, job creation, and community stability. Chamber officials said acknowledging those who champion policies, resources, and opportunities for these enterprises is essential to sustaining an inclusive and thriving economy.
This year’s program will present awards across more than a dozen categories, recognizing business owners, corporate leaders, and public servants who have demonstrated a commitment to expanding opportunity and supporting entrepreneurship.
The California Small Business Champion Award will be presented to Peter Tateishi, CEO of the Associated General Contractors. In an industry where success depends on coordination, adaptability, and workforce development, Tateishi has positioned AGC as a leader in addressing California’s construction labor needs.
During his tenure, the organization has experienced significant growth in revenue, staff, and membership, while evolving into a mission-driven association that prioritizes worker safety and workforce sustainability.
The Public Service Award will be presented to Los Angeles City Councilman Tim McOsker, who represents the 15th District. Since his election in 2022, McOsker has focused on advancing policies that promote economic opportunity, environmental sustainability and community well-being. His priorities include creating good-paying jobs, increasing access to affordable housing, addressing homelessness, improving public safety, and ensuring transparency and accountability in local government.
Beyond honoring distinguished leaders, the chamber dinner serves as a vital space for connecting business owners, policymakers, investors and community stakeholders. Attendees gain access to a network of decision-makers and innovators, creating opportunities for partnerships, mentorship, and business growth. The evening is not only a celebration of achievement but also a catalyst for future economic advancement.
For more information, visit glaaacc.org/events/awards-dinner.
