J.C. Watts, Jr.

1998 Honoree

Walk onto Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., one afternoon and you might find Congressman J.C. Watts, Jr., discussing budget, education, and defense issues with some of Washington's most powerful politicians. The next day, dressed in religious garb, he might be traveling across the country as a guest preacher and the associate pastor of Sunnylane Southern Baptist Church in Del City, Oklahoma.

Congressman Watts, the fifth of Helen and Buddy Watts' six children, was born November 18, 1957 in the rural community of Eufaula, Oklahoma. He is a 1976 graduate of Eufaula High School and a 1981 journalism graduate of the University of Oklahoma.

His propensity for making a difference is what has made Congressman Watts a driving force in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he was first elected in November 1994. The only black Republican in Congress, Congressman Watts has a solid reputation in Oklahoma as a perceptive and passionate spokesman for a balanced budget, improved education, and a strong defense.

Since arriving in Washington, D.C., the father of five has been an active and faithful proponent of family values and cultural renewal. He has introduced several projects, including the Community Renewal Project. This initiative attempts to bring spiritual, moral and economic renewal to communities by encouraging investment and savings, offering school choice, and allowing citizens the option to use faith-based programs. The congressman attributes spiritual, traditional, and family values to his parents, a strong family, a strong church, and a strong neighborhood.

As he did during the 1996 Republican National Convention, Congressman Watts always challenges young people to be responsible. "Young people, America needs you. If our country is going to continue to be great, if it is going to continue to be strong, you are going to have to do your part. You are going to have to fight for America." He urges, "Fight against skipping school and cheating on your papers. Fight against driving too fast and disobeying your parents. Fight against cursing and smoking. And fight, fight with every fiber of your being against drugs and alcohol."