Contact: Katherine Jolly (510) 763-0370

Oakland, CA – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) issued the following statement on the passing of Mervyn Dymally:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mervyn Dymally, and my thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family.

“Mervyn was truly a world renowned leader. As the California's first foreign-born black assemblyman in 1962, the first black senator in 1966, the first and only black lieutenant governor in 1974, he was a trailblazer for African American politicians in the state. In 1980, he was elected to the U.S Congress where he served as chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus and the House Foreign Affairs Committee. His dedication to global issues and Africa saved and improved the lives of many and inspired all of those around him.

"I believe his legacy of over 50 years of service to California, the nation and the world will inspire many to speak for the voiceless and stand up for justice across the globe.

"He has been a personal friend since early 70's. I will deeply miss his wise counsel and friendship.”

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