We lost a giant in the civil rights movement last night. A trailblazer who grew into a leader through the fight in the South for equal rights to becoming a historic elected official in Georgia and the leader of the NAACP - Julian Bond embodied every part of our movement.

He knew early on that sitting on the sidelines wasn't a way to accomplish equality. You had to stand up, stand tall and never waver in what you believed in. We remember and honor his legacy by continuing the fight. From the beginning starting Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee, to boldly standing for peace against war, and working tirelessly for full voting rights, Julian lived a life giving back to everyone around him. Everything he did was for justice and that is a life we must all aspire to live.

Though the passing of Julian Bond will leave a sense of loss in our hearts, his legacy will always be our bedrock, as we continue the fight for rights, respect and equal treatment under the law for every community.”

George Gresham

President

1199SEIU