Yesterday, Congressman John Lewis passed away. Congressman Lewis was absolutely committed to the principle of one person, one vote; an advocate who long ago put his life on the line for justice and fundamental rights has now left us. 

For many in the NYDLC family, Congressman Lewis was the greatest leader for the Democratic movement for voting rights in our lifetimes. John Lewis, in word and deed, with blood and sweat, pushed America over a bridge to try to be a better nation. Congressman Lewis never stopped fighting.

It is a sad moment, bidding farewell to one of the brightest lights of the past sixty years.

His absence casts a pall on us; but also a call to fill what he leaves behind. 

We must offer more than words of tribute, and live up to Congressman Lewis’s example of constancy in the fight for justice.

Most of all, we must collectively recognize the charge he left us, to continue the fight for voting rights today. 

Every one of us is entrusted with his legacy and must carry it with us through November and beyond, as we fight for the life of American Democracy itself.

Many of our members have fond memories of meeting the Congressman in person over the years, and hearing him implore them to “make good trouble.” 

In the coming days, we will ask for you to tap into both the grief and the gratitude felt today, to continue to support his legacy. 

At the moment, we simply honor him.

May we all live and work in his example, as we find our way forward together.