WASHINGTON D.C. – Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) released the following statement regarding the passing of Nelson Mandela, the former President of South Africa whose lifelong crusade for justice and equality brought an end to that nation’s practice of apartheid:

“Today we mourn the loss of Nelson Mandela, a great and compassionate leader who left the world better than he found it. Although he was imprisoned for 27 years for his non-violent efforts to end apartheid in South Africa, Mr. Mandela never stopped fighting against the blatantly discriminatory and dehumanizing policies of the South African government. In 1994, Mandela took office as South Africa’s first democratically elected President. He promoted peace and forgiveness, led with pragmatic wisdom and raised the aspirations of people everywhere. Mr. Mandela devoted his life to ending oppression in South Africa which not only brought justice in his homeland, but motivated people in the United States and around the world to stand up for human rights. Let us never forget the achievements of this remarkable and heroic leader. There is no better way to honor his legacy than to seek an end to injustice and inequality wherever it is found.”

“Mr. Mandela was a member of the Xhosa tribe which has a saying, “Ithemba liyaphilisa” – “Hope causes one to live.” I thank Mr. Mandela for being the courageous force for good who brought hope and a better life to millions of people throughout the world. I offer my deepest condolences to Mr. Mandela’s family and the people of South Africa."

###