Chicago City Wire

George Washington Collins assumed office as the Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Illinois's 6th district on November 3, 1970. Born on March 5, 1925, in Chicago, Collins grew up in the city's South Side. His political career began in the Illinois House of Representatives, where he served from 1965 to 1970. As a congressman, he advocated for civil rights and urban development, focusing on issues affecting Chicago's African American community. Collins was a vocal critic of racial discrimination and inequality, working to address housing segregation and economic disparities. Tragically, his promising career was cut short when he died in a plane crash on December 8, 1972, while en route to Washington, D.C. to attend a House Democratic Caucus meeting. His untimely death shocked Chicago and the nation, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy for social justice and equality. Today, Collins is remembered for his dedication to serving the people of Chicago and his unwavering commitment to fighting for the rights of marginalized communities.