Rush reacts to the deaths of Hyde Parkers Leon Despres and Long-Time Civil Rights Activist Sam Ackerman

CHICAGO - Today, U.S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush said the following upon learning of the deaths of two long-time Hyde Park residents and civil rights champions former Alderman Leon Despres and civil rights activist Sam Ackerman:

"I am saddened to learn of the death of former Ald. Leon Despres who was voice for the voiceless, a champion for those too weak to fight and a consistent defender of freedom. Leon was always on the right side of history and he used his tremendous gifts to lift the boats stuck on the bottom. We had Leon for more than a century. Now he has returned to God. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and all of those who loved him.

"Likewise, Sam Ackerman knew what Dr. King meant when he preached we should judge people by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin. He devoted his life to working to make America live up to its promise of freedom, justice and equality for all. Chicago will always be grateful for Sam's commitment and he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."

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