Dear Calvin,
Yesterday, America lost a hero.
Dr. Benjamin L. Hooks was among the greatest Americans of the 20th century. A crusading lawyer who fought against oppression and a courageous, committed organizer who used communication to move mountains -- Dr. Hooks lifted the Civil Rights movement, breaking down racial barriers.
But above all else, he was a believer -- a believer in righteousness, justice and truth.
I'll never forget being a young organizer, watching Dr. Hooks address the '93 March on Washington. He stood there in front of the Washington Monument in his blue blazer and starched white shirt. In my eyes, Dr. Hooks was Superman. For those of us who came of age in the '70s and '80s, he was the most visible advocate for civil and human rights, the man who dared to push corporate America to opens doors to people who looked like us.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Hooks family in this tragic time. Will you take a moment to share your stories or sympathies with them?
Click here to visit the NAACP website and share your stories or sympathies with the Hooks family.
As we grieve over the loss of this incredible individual, we must remember to be thankful for the legacy he leaves behind and continue to honor Dr. Hooks by fighting with 'truth, justice and righteousness on our side.'
Yesterday, we lost a hero, a patriot and above all a friend. But in Dr. Hooks' passing his legacy remains -- a legacy that will improve the lives of generations to come.
Sincerely,
Benjamin Todd Jealous
President and CEO
NAACP
