WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following the passing of civil rights leader and Congressman John Lewis (D-Ga.), National Wildlife Federation President and CEO Collin O’Mara issued the following statement:

"Congressman Lewis' tireless pursuit of civil rights and his pioneering advocacy for environmental justice for all will echo throughout history. While much will rightly be written about his resolute courage and clarion pursuit of justice, he was also an incredible friend — always with an open door, a warm smile, a word of encouragement, an eagerness to lean in. From introducing the nation’s first environmental justice legislation to fighting for clean water for all in his last few months, Rep. Lewis was an unwavering champion and ally for wildlife and people. We are proud to be among the millions he inspired and we will redouble our efforts to seek justice and make 'good trouble' in his memory. Rest in power, our hero."

Lewis' death came the same day the world lost fellow civil rights leader and icon Cordy Tindell "C.T." Vivian.