Jonathon Berman, jonathon.berman@sierraclub.org
Washington, DC -- Late Friday evening, Congressman John Lewis, an icon of the Civil Rights Movement and representative for Georgia’s 5th congressional district for more than 30 years, passed away.
In response, Sierra Club National Director for Policy Advocacy and Legal Leslie Fields released the following statement:
“In a country increasingly short on heroes, Congressman John Lewis was a giant. He nearly gave his life so that I, and millions of Black Americans, could vote, receive an education and participate in American society. He was a lifetime advocate for climate action and co-sponsored the first environmental justice bill in 1992. And he spent his whole adult life fighting to make this a better country for everyone who lives in it.
“As we take to the streets, as we march, and as we demand progress, we stand on the shoulders of Congressman Lewis who helped build the foundation for the movement of change sweeping the world that today manifests itself in the Strike for Black Lives.
“Our thoughts are with Congressman Lewis’ family and loved ones, the millions he inspired, and the entire nation, which is better because of him.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.5 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.