Lateefah Simon: “as Black Music Month comes to a close, I rise in the House today for 1 minute to honor my dear friend, D'Wayne Wiggans.…”

“as Black Music Month comes to a close, I rise in the House today for 1 minute to honor my dear friend, D'Wayne Wiggans. D'Wayne Wiggans passed away on March 7, 2025, and my community of Oakland, California, and the world continues to grieve. We are mourning not only his significant contributions to the Black music community, but we knew D'Wayne as a legendary musician who gave as much of his voice as he gave to community. D'Wayne made and produced music that uplifted so many. Moreover, we know him as a monumental soul of good. He mentored countless artists and young people, including Destiny's Child and Beyonce, helped to start the career of Alicia Keys, and was on the Grammy stage every year for decades. D'Wayne opened up many spaces for young people in my community in California's District 12 to thrive. He was incredibly generous. Moreover, we know that there is no dying when it comes to D'Wayne's voice. You cannot kill culture. Our community loves him and his family, and I am so thankful for what he has given our community. His voice will never cease.”