(Washington, D.C.) – Retired four-star general Colin L. Powell, who served as the nation’s top soldier, diplomat and national security adviser, died on Monday from complications of COVID-19. Powell was 84 at the time of his passing. Powell was a “strong proponent” of affirmative action during his lifetime.
The following is a statement from Damon Hewitt, president and executive director with the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law:
“Colin Powell was a consummate servant leader who, through his numerous leadership posts, was dedicated to protecting our nation while also helping us to live up to its highest ideals. His patriotism is defined not only by his military service, but also by his embrace of racial diversity to move our country toward inclusion, exemplified by his early support of affirmative action programs in higher education that were under attack in the nation’s highest court. Colin Powell moved across partisan lines and spoke up for justice when it mattered most. His presence and influence will be missed.”
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About the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law – The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law (Lawyers’ Committee), a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, was formed in 1963 at the request of President John F. Kennedy to involve the private bar in providing legal services to address racial discrimination. The principal mission of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is to secure, through the rule of law, equal justice for all, particularly in the areas of voting rights, criminal justice, fair housing and community development, economic justice, educational opportunities, and hate crimes. For more information, please visit https://lawyerscommittee.org.
