I am deeply saddened at the loss of Congressman John Lewis. I join members of 100 Black Men of America, Inc., along with fellow Americans and caring citizens globally, in mourning the loss of this hero of human rights. The 100 Black Men network extends our condolences to his entire family and to the community that loved him. He was a 100 member who lead by example and he responded to our requests for Congressional Black Caucus representation at town halls and forums. We can look across the career of John Lewis as an example of unwavering leadership. He set a standard that our mentees from middle school to college can study and emulate.
Working tirelessly as the U.S. Representative for Georgia's 5th congressional district, he was serving in his 17th term in the House. A civil rights icon, a former student protester who helped lead a march for voting rights on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, and an ongoing warrior against inequality can finally rest. Congressman Lewis was the dean of the Georgia congressional delegation and the longest serving member of the Congressional Black Caucus. He was widely referred to as the conscious of congress, a moniker directly related to his lengthy record of fighting for equal rights and for always protesting against racial and social injustice.Congressman Lewis worked so hard, for so long, fiercely fighting many battles throughout his life. He never gave up and until now, he could never be silenced. His resolve to go into battle for the civil and human rights of all people is evident today, as the global leaders pay homage to him. The legacy of John Lewis is extensive. Students for generations to come should study and learn how a single person’s compassion for truth, and for doing what is morally right, can change the trajectory of their life, the lives of others and positively impact the world.
As we bid farewell, we will always remember his sacrifices and his body of work. We will never forget the voice he gave to so many who were disenfranchised from participating in the American dream. Today our hearts are very sad but like Congressman Lewis taught us, we must march on because there is still work that must be completed. We salute Congressman John Lewis for the Good Trouble.
Thomas W. Dortch, Jr.
Chairman
100 Black Men of America, Inc.
Reprinted from the website of the 100 Black Men of America