PHILADELPHIA PA. Dec, 3, 2007 – Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA) issues the following statement upon the death on December 1 of education pioneer John D. Skief:

“The unexpected passing of John D. Skief at the young age of 59 is a sad time for all Philadelphians, especially those who have fought for the educational advancement and empowerment of African American youth. It is a deeply felt personal loss for my family and for me, as well.

“John Skief was my daughter Fran’s teacher when she attended Harambee Institute, which he founded as a storefront after-school program in 1974. He and I worked as partners in the education reform efforts that served as the center of his life’s work. He was also my personal representative on the project to create the President’s House/Slavery Memorial at Independence National Historical Park.

“John is best known as a pioneer in education for African Americans. From the modest founding of Harambee Institute, he developed and opened the Harambee Institute of Science and Technology in Overbrook as one of the first charter schools in Philadelphia in 1997. The school, with 500 young students through the eighth grade, serves as a living memorial as it thrives and hums with the music of his vision.

“It is fitting that John, who always articulated the value of planning ahead, decreed that his death should be an occasion for celebration. As all of us join the large and accomplished Skief family in these days of mourning, we will heed his words. In the 59 short years of John D. Skief’s life, there is much to celebrate.”