National Urban League Honors John Conyers’ Legacy

National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial issued the following statement in response to the passing of longtime Congressman John Conyers of Michigan:

“As a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, John Conyers was instrumental in demanding a platform for African American voices at the highest level of government. He pushed to have Martin Luther King, Jr.’s, birthday designated a national holiday immediately following King’s assassination. 

“He was far ahead of the curve on progressive issues such as reparations and  single-payer health care, introducing the Commission to Study Reparations Proposals for African Americans Act every session of his tenure since 1989 and the United States National Health Care Act  each session since 2015.

“He was a great champion of the National Urban League’s issues, from economic justice to voting rights. We mourn his loss and honor his profound legacy.”