LULAC: America Has Lost A Great American Hero Of Social Justice

Nation’s Oldest and Largest Latino Civil Rights Organization Honors John Lewis, U.S. Congressman and Champion for the Oppressed

Washington, DC - The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) today praised civil rights leader and lawmaker John Lewis who died Friday, at the age of 80.

Domingo Garcia - National President
“We have witnessed the passing of one of our country’s greatest civil rights leaders who spent his life advocating for the poorest, weakest and most vulnerable. A true American hero, who I had the honor to work with, has passed to a special place in heaven. What I will always remember about John will be his great humility which made his voice so powerful and his truth so unstoppable. When John Lewis walked into a room, we all knew we stood in the presence of history and nothing or no one would deter this man who stood less than five-and-a-half feet tall, and yet he towered over all in the struggle for justice and righteousness. He was a mentor, a friend and an inspiration to me. America will miss his counsel.”

Sindy Benavides - Chief Executive Officer
“From the streets of Selma, Alabama to the halls of Congress, John Lewis’ life journey lifted our nation. Those who saw him work for more than six decades will never forget how his mere gaze could convey enormous compassion for victims of injustice or just as easily condemn those who abused their power against them. He was beloved by his friends and feared by his political foes. Yet, no one will ever say they didn’t respect him. John Lewis was a man by whom others set their compass on both his integrity and his staunch refusal to compromise when it came to America’s principles of freedom and liberty for all. LULAC has lost a valued and faithful ally who never wavered in standing with us on immigration, voting rights, equality for women and so much more. His legacy will live on for generations. Our hearts and thoughts are with John's family, friends, and staff. March on in justice. ”

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About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation’s largest and oldest civil rights volunteer-based organization that empowers Hispanic Americans and builds strong Latino communities. Headquartered in Washington, DC, with 1,000 councils around the United States and Puerto Rico, LULAC’s programs, services and advocacy address the most important issues for Latinos, meeting critical needs of today and the future. For more information, visit www.LULAC.org.