ATLANTA – State Representative Karen Bennett (D-Stone Mountain), chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus (GLBC), today issued the following statement regarding the recent passing of U.S. Congressman John Lewis:
“We are saddened at the passing of Congressman John Lewis, a stalwart of the modern civil rights movement and exemplar of American patriotism.
“The Georgia Legislative Black Caucus is indebted to Congressman Lewis’ sacrifice, humanity and vision of a world where freedom and justice are more than just concepts, but the embodiment of who we are as a society. He was a strong, proud man who willingly stood tall against the forces of evil and oppression. Congressman Lewis’ moral consciousness and character set a charge before all humanity to act justly, walk humbly and serve all humanity before God. Congressman Lewis was a beacon leading our state, country and, undoubtedly, the world to higher ground and sacred space where justice and inclusion prevails.
“Our responsibility is to continue his legacy of hope and wellbeing as the challenges he faced still plague us today. As a caucus comprising of 65 men and women from across the state, we intend to honor Congressman Lewis not just with words, but with action in exercising our most precious and crucial right as agents of change.
“As Georgians, we must vote in the August runoff election and the November general election. As Georgians, we must advocate for real change in our criminal justice, healthcare, economic and education systems. As Georgians, we must demand accountability and transparency from our elected officials and others who are sworn to serve the public. As Georgians, we have to safeguard the vision of Congressman John Lewis as we work together for a better Georgia.”
Established in 1975, the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus is a 501(c)3 non-profit, nonpartisan organization comprised of 65 Georgia House and Senate members.
For more information about the GLBC, please click here.
Representative Karen Bennett represents the citizens of Districts 94, which includes portions of DeKalb and Gwinnett counties. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2012 and currently serves on the Code Revision, Economic Development & Tourism, Health & Human Services and Regulated Industries committees.
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