(WEAA)— Representative Kweisi Mfume filed legislation last week to posthumously award the late Henrietta Lacks the Congressional Gold Medal for her contributions to medical breakthroughs.
The Baltimore native's cells were used for medical research without her consent.
"March is Women's History Month and I wanted to honor a very special woman in history, Henrietta Lacks. Her immortal cells have been responsible for many medical breakthroughs. She deserves the Congressional Gold Medal," Congressman Mfume posted on Twitter.
The Congressional Gold Medal is considered to be one of the highest civilian awards in the country.
Click the audio to hear Congressman Mfume on Today with Dr. Kaye.