(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Congressman Jamie Raskin (MD-08) released the following statement on the passing of his colleague and civil rights leader Congressman John Lewis (GA-05):
"America has lost a national treasure. It is hard to measure the depths of our loss.
"From an awesomely young age, John Lewis placed his body in the pathway of injustice, violent white supremacy and apartheid.
"He organized. He educated. He galvanized. He preached. And he touched people every day.
"He voted against war and he championed peace in his every action and every movement.
"It is an honor beyond all reckoning to have called him my colleague and a blessing beyond gratitude to have known him and called him my friend.
"America needs John Lewis on this day and every other: 'Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.."
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