NBJC Mourns The Loss of Congresswoman Julia Carson
Filed by: H. Alexander Robinson
December 21, 2007 11:22 AM
On behalf of the Board of Directors, staff, and members of the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) we extend our deepest sympathy to the family, friends, staff, and constituents of Congresswoman Julia Carson.
During her tenure US Rep. Carson exhibited leadership and political courage as a champion for both racial justice and for the realization of civil rights of all LGBT Americans. She made history for not being limited by the conventional; a crucial lesson for all those who would defy the expectation of the establishment.
"Congresswoman Carson’s continued support and fight for equality, inspired young people such as myself to reach for the stars knowing that nothing is impossible. She will be sorely missed." stated Jasper Hendricks, Director of National Field Operations and Political Programs.
Rising from childhood poverty and segregation, in 1996 Carson became the first African American and the first woman to represent Indianapolis in the US Congress. In addition to her strong record on LGBT civil rights, she also championed other issues such as children's and women's rights homelessness and was vocal opponent against the war in Iraq.
Carson died of lung cancer on Dec. 15. Her memorial service is scheduled for today. A procession from Carson's Indianapolis home on horse-drawn carriage is expected to arrive at the Statehouse at 10 a.m. A memorial service is planned for 6 p.m., with public visitation continuing until 10 p.m.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at Eastern Star Church, with burial to follow at Crown Hill Cemetery.
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1 Comment
I watched Julia's funeral this morning on TV. I was shocked to see some obviously missing dignitaries. Neither the President nor the Vice-President were there even though she was a sitting member of Congress. Neither Bill nor Hillary Clinton were in attendance even though Julia had endorsed Hillary's campaign. Barack Obama was one of the few members the black caucus not to be in attendance.
I was also surprised how many of the speakers took the opportunity to politic on behalf of Andre Carson. It was a little over the top.
Bil Browning | December 23, 2007 1:49 AM
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