WASHINGTON, DC – (October 10,2012) - Congressional Black Caucus member Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement regarding the death of former Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Mervyn Dymally on October 7, 2012. Mr. Dymally served as Member of the Congressional Black Caucus from 1981-1993 and served as Chair during the 100th Congress:

“It is deeply saddening to hear of the passing of our former Chairman Mervyn M. Dymally. He was instrumental in breaking a number of barriers for African Americans, and for all people of color during his tenure as an elected official on the local, state and federal levels.

Mr. Dymally was the first Black state Senator and first Black Lieutenant Governor for the state of California. His constant advocacy for the protection of rights for all people ensured that the voices of people of color, and lower socioeconomic levels would be heard. The most defenseless Americans had a voice in securing their futures because of the tireless efforts of Mr. Dymally.

During his career in the House of Representatives and as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Mr. Dymally continuously brought civil, economic and human rights issues, domestically and abroad, to the forefront. Mr. Dymally was a prominent figure in the passage of the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 that implemented sanctions against South Africa, secured the freedom of Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners, and helped to end apartheid in the country. He was also the CBC member that pioneered the way for advancements in technology, prior to my tenure in the House.

Mr. Dymally’s impact on society will have a rippling effect on this generation and generations to come. My thoughts and prayers are with the family during their time of bereavement.”

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U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson is the highest-ranking Texan on the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure and a senior member of the Science Committee. She represents the 30th Congressional District of Texas, which, includes Downtown Dallas, Fair Park, Oak Lawn, Turtle Creek, Old East Dallas, Pleasant Grove, & South Oak Cliff; all of Balch Springs, DeSoto, Hutchins, Lancaster & Wilmer and parts of Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Ferris, Glenn Heights and Ovilla.