WASHINGTON— AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins released the following statement in response to the passing of Rep. John Lewis.   

"Today we mourn the loss of a fearless civil rights hero. Congressman John Lewis was a true example of leadership. He dedicated his life to equal justice for all Americans, bringing moral clarity to our national dialogue and inspiring individuals no matter what race, or party, or age, or religion. Rep. Lewis was an icon for generations of Americans, from his march in Selma that led to the Voting Rights Act, to his work to end discrimination against LGBTQ Americans. 

“Congressman Lewis represented Georgia's 5th Congressional District, but his real constituency spanned the country as the voice for millions of disenfranchised Americans. His legacy will live on as our nation continues to work together to advance racial justice, healing, and new progress toward full equality. All of us at AARP send our deepest condolences to the Lewis family.”

 ###

About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Media Contact: External Relations, media@aarp.org, 202-434-2560, @AARPMedia