Statement on the Passing of Civil Rights Activist Willis Edwards

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Karen Bass issued the following statement after learning of the passing of civil rights activist, Willis Edwards:

“It was absolutely heartbreaking to learn about the death of my dear friend Willis Edwards. Although he was sick for some time, losing a vibrant soul and faithful supporter of so many people in our community is never easy. 

"It is my hope that Willis knew how much we all loved him and considered him to be a legend in black history. His dedication to civil rights as well as California and national politics will never be forgotten. He worked tirelessly to ensure positive images of African Americans were displayed on television when he persuaded NBC to televise the NAACP Image Awards show, and was right by civil rights icon Rosa Parks' side prior to her death.”