For Immediate Release
July 20, 2020

Media Contact:
Angela Allmond, Communications Director
Oklahoma Democratic Party
405-536-2412

Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair Statement on Congressman Lewis’ Passing

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Democratic Party released the following statement on Congressman John Lewis’ passing from Alicia Andrews, ODP Chair:

“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our most respected and endeared civil rights heroes, Congressman John Lewis,” stated Alicia Andrews. “Lewis leaves behind a legacy that will impact generations to come for decades and hopefully will continue to encourage others to join the fight against injustice and oppression.”

“Congressman Lewis refused to be silenced. He dedicated his life working against segregation and equal rights to vote, but he also inspired people to get involved in peaceful actions against racial injustices. He was humble in his approach while adopting Martin Luther King Jr.’s nonviolent response to hatred.”

“From lunch counter sit-ins, joining the Freedom Riders movement, and the horrific “Bloody Sunday” beatings on Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Lewis risked his life fighting against racism. He continued that fight in 1981 when joining the Atlanta city council and then the United States House of Representatives for Georgia’s 5th congressional district in 1987.”

“We are reminded that our nation continues to fight a divide, further driven by hatred at levels not seen since the 1950s and 1960s. It is in Lewis’ memory that we must get in the way of systemic racism and voter suppression. We must all unite despite the efforts of those who would divide us. We must work for racial justice and against oppression for all humans,” concluded Andrews.

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For more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at okdemocrats.org, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.