For Immediate Release: July 18, 2020

Media Contact: Inaru Melendez, press@populardemocracy.org

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK -- In response to the passing of two legendary civil rights icons, the Center for Popular Democracy released the following statement:

“We are devastated by the news that both civil rights icons Reverend Cordy Tindell “C.T.” Vivian, and Representative John Lewis have died. Their life-long fight for justice and equality laid the foundation for the latest waves of community organizing to build a world where Black and brown people, immigrant families, and all of our communities, can thrive. 

“Just two short years ago, we stood side by side with Rep. Lewis at a Families Belong Together march, to denounce the Trump administration’s racist deportation and detention policies against undocumented people.” 

“Throughout their lives, Rev. C.T. Vivian and Rep. John Lewis repeatedly put their bodies on the line, inspiring generations with their passionate quest for equity and justice for all regardless of race, gender, creed or class. As we mourn the loss of these movement giants, we are more determined than ever to honor their legacy. We know that there is no better way to do this than by getting into good trouble and fighting until we live in a world where every person is free to live, free to move, and free to thrive.”