“I mourn the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson, who, among many other great achievements in his career, served as one of DC’s first Shadow Senators from 1991-1997, and was the first and most prominent leader in our nation’s history to fully embrace the cause of DC Statehood. He was a leader who sought to uplift the poor and marginalized and advance racial equality, paving the way for many of the next generation’s great leaders. He will always have a special place in the hearts of everyone who calls the District of Columbia home as one of our most prominent advocates. I wish his family and loved ones peace in this hard time. even as we look upon his life and celebrate all he was able to do to advance the cause of justice and equality.”