April 15, 2010

Washington, DC—Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid released the following statement this afternoon in reaction to the death of former NAACP Executive Director Benjamin L. Hooks, who passed away today at age 85:

“I am saddened by the loss of Dr. Benjamin Hooks, a fighter for civil rights and true pioneer of the 20^th century.  He oversaw a decade and a half of growth at the NAACP and worked to create employment initiatives and economic development opportunities for African-Americans.  Mr. Hooks also served as the first black state trial court judge since Reconstruction in the South and the first black Commissioner at the FCC. 

“His contributions resonate within the African-American community but will have a lasting impact on all Americans. My thoughts are with his wife, Frances, and the rest of his family at this difficult time.”