Rapper Ludacris hosted the Ludacris Foundation’s 6th Annual Benefit Dinner Saturday evening (Oct 24) in Washington, D.C. The Atlanta native presented Congresswoman Maxine Waters (Democrat – California) with the Congressional Leadership award in the name of his foundation prior to the event.

On giving the Congressional Leadership award to Congresswoman Waters, Ludacris said “I just think she is a great woman and a great individual.” He suggested the relationship between the two bridged the generation gap.

In a later interview, Waters praised the rapper for reaching out to her generation. “For more mature people like me to be recognized by younger people is really important,” she said. She argued that Ludacris’ style of music should be more widely accepted.

“The hip hop culture has a profound influence on our country on our young people – for many many years it has been known as violent or vulgar,” she said. “Instead of running away from it we should embrace it.”

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Other celebrities at the benefit dinner were Raheem DeVaughn, Common, Omarosa and more. Continue reading for the rest of the pics!