Brown Honors the Life of Civil Rights Hero Congressman John Lewis

CLEVELAND, OH – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) released the following statement on the passing of U.S. Congressman John Lewis:

“Today, our hearts are heavy as our nation mourns the loss of my friend Congressman John Lewis, an icon in the civil rights movement, the Conscience of the Congress. From the age of 20, John risked his life fighting for justice and racial equality in this country. He was a man of courage, principle and tenacious faith.

“The first time I walked across the Edmond Pettus Bridge with John in Selma, Alabama in 1998 was one of the most inspiring moments of my life. Thirty-three years earlier, John Lewis and other civil rights activists marched in nonviolent resistance against the brutality and hate they faced in order to create change for our country. Throughout his life, John walked across bridge after bridge to fight for justice, to embrace everyone with his kindness and generosity, to help anyone in need, to listen and to understand.

“John Lewis was our guiding star. He was a freedom fighter and we all must continue his fight. We will honor his legacy by finally tearing down the walls of racial inequality in this country and ensuring that all Americans will have full and equal participation in our democracy.

“May he rest in peace as he joins his beloved wife of 44 years, Lillian. Connie and I pray for his son, John-Miles and the Lewis family.”