ACLU Statement on Death of Rep. John Lewis

NEW YORK — In response to the passing of Rep. John Lewis, American Civil Liberties Union Executive Director Anthony D. Romero issued the following statement:

“The death of John Lewis at this moment of national reckoning on race leaves us without a key protagonist for the third Reconstruction that must begin in November. We have lost a great legislator, activist, and ally. Rep. John Lewis’ activism, his inclusive vision of civil rights, and his clarion voice have left indelible marks on millions of people and countless movements. He called to the better angels in all of us to cause ‘good trouble’ so that America’s promises of justice and equality would apply to everyone in America — communities of color, immigrants, LGBTQ people.

“As we mourn the loss of a true hero and patriot, we also re-commit to building the future John Lewis knew we could create: one in which ‘We the People’ truly means all of us. He taught us about the America worth fighting for, and we will keep fighting for it. He was a dear friend, ally and confidant to many civil rights leaders, legislators — even U.S. Presidents — of conscience. But his biggest contribution was to the millions of people who struggle against injustice and poverty — and while they may never have met him, they never had a better friend.”