Congresswoman Lawrence serves as Co-Chair of the Democratic Women's Caucus, 2nd Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, and Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish Relations. She's the Vice Chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee and serves on the subcommittee on Labor, Health, and Human Services (LHHS), subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) and the subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government (FSGG). She is also a member of the House Committee on Government Oversight and Reform where she serves on the subcommittee on Government Operations.

Born and raised in Detroit, Congresswoman Lawrence is a product of Michigan's public-school system. She is an alumna of Pershing High School and earned her bachelor's degree in Public Administration from Central Michigan University. Before she began her career in public service, the Congresswoman had a notable career with the U.S. Postal Service.

In November of 2001, Congresswoman was elected as Mayor of the City of Southfield. She was the first African American and the first woman to serve in that position. She previously served on the Southfield City Council, where she was elected President in 1999. Additionally, she sat on the Southfield Public School Board of Education where she served as President, Vice President, and Secretary.

Congresswoman Lawrence and her husband, McArthur Lawrence, are the proud parents of Michael and Michelle. They also adore one granddaughter, Asya.