(Washington, DC) Congresswoman Brown made the following statement:

“I was extremely saddened upon hearing the news of the death of former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm. She was a true trailblazer, and was a role model and mentor to me. Living in Florida, Ms. Chisholm joined me at several events I held in my District, and remained popular long after retiring from Congress.

As a Member of Congress from 1968 until 1983, Shirley Chisholm was an outstanding leader who exemplified public service. In 1972, Congresswoman Chisholm became the first African American woman to be a candidate for the nomination of the Democratic Party for the office of President of the United States.

As a founding Member of the Congressional Black Caucus, she was a driving force behind the Caucus’ mission to serve as the ‘Conscience of the Congress,’ and to fight to include women, children, and people of color in the public policy debate that so deeply affects their lives.

Even after holding office, she continued her fight for equal rights by establishing the National Political Congress of Black Women.

As we honor Congresswoman Chisholm’s legacy, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to remain true to her vision of creating an America that affords equality and justice to all of its citizens.

I will miss her dearly, and her family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.”