Hoyer Statement on the Passing of Julian Bond

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on the passing of Julian Bond:

"I was deeply saddened to learn this morning of the passing of Julian Bond, an icon of the Civil Rights Movement and a tireless fighter for equality, justice, and opportunity for all Americans. A pioneer of non-violent resistance to end segregation in public facilities, Mr. Bond drew on that experience when he successfully fought for his right to be seated after winning election to the Georgia legislature, in which he would serve for two decades. During the 1970's, he co-founded the Southern Poverty Law Center, and in later years he served with distinction for a decade as Chairman of the NAACP.

"A civil rights leader, teacher, legislator, and poet, Julian Bond left an indelible imprint on our country, and he will be remembered for his passion for justice and his determination to stamp out racism and inequality. I join in offering my condolences to his wife, Pamela, his five children, and the extended Bond family."