Nation Loses a Civil Rights Standard Bearer

“The nation has lost a great American, and the civil rights movement has lost a standard bearer. Coretta Scott King’s life was dedicated to progress through equal justice under law. She was Dr. Martin Luther King’s partner and worked harder than anyone to make her husband’s dream a reality. Through her work she became one of our nation’s most powerful civil rights advocates. We are a stronger nation because of the contributions she made.

Mrs. King was more than an icon. She was a contemporary activist who lent her name, voice, and many talents to the ongoing struggles of the civil rights movement.

These are troubling times for those who care about the civil rights gains that Dr. and Mrs. King helped make possible. But Mrs. King – perhaps more than anyone – would understand that in the fight for justice, we must remain focused. Her death is a great loss, but also an opportunity to recommit ourselves to the social justice agenda she and her family have worked so hard to advance.

Our hearts and sympathies are with her family.”