A Legacy of Compassion: Black Leaders Honor Jimmy Carter
As the world reflects on the life and legacy of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100, numerous Black leaders across the nation have expressed their admiration and respect. His death, confirmed by his son, occurred at his home in Plains, Georgia. Carter, the longest-lived former President in U.S. history, was known for his humanitarian efforts and his tenure as the 39th president of the United States.
Responding to the news, former President Barack Obama took to Medium to share his thoughts on Carter’s enduring influence. Obama highlighted Carter’s adherence to values such as “integrity, respect, and compassion,” emphasizing, “Whenever I had a chance to spend time with President Carter, it was clear that he didn’t just profess these values. He embodied them.” Obama noted Carter’s choice to consistently work towards peace and alleviate suffering, a testament to his enduring impact.
Derrick Johnson, President of the NAACP, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging Carter’s significant contributions to civil rights. Johnson pointed out that as President, Carter “set a record for Black appointments, including the first Black woman in a cabinet.” Johnson remarked on Carter’s dedication to human rights, stating that he “embodied true leadership.”
The Georgia NAACP also paid tribute, recognizing Carter’s commitment to civil rights and democracy. They noted that his efforts left a lasting impact not only in Georgia but also around the world. They commended his unwavering belief in the dignity of every human being.
U.S. Senator Cory Booker fondly remembered a childhood memory of voting for Carter in a school mock election. Booker admired Carter for his embodiment of “service, leadership, discipline, grace, kindness, and living your faith more than speaking your faith.” Booker noted that Carter epitomized “radical love.”
Janai Nelson, President and Director-Counsel of the LDF, described Carter as an “ardent torchbearer of human and civil rights.” In a press release, she commended his principled leadership and humanitarian agenda, which challenged the status quo and transformed the nation.
Stacey Abrams, a prominent Georgia politician, praised Carter for his life of “courage, fortitude, kindness and grace.” She admired how he never viewed others as lesser than himself and lived by the teachings of James 2:17. Abrams highlighted his efforts in building homes, saving lives, and tending to souls.
Jimmy Carter’s presidency from 1977 to 1981, after defeating Republican incumbent Gerald Ford, marked the beginning of a lifetime dedicated to humanitarian work. His post-presidency years saw him working extensively with Habitat for Humanity, aiding communities both locally in Georgia and abroad for nearly four decades.
SEE ALSO:
Jimmy Carter, Former U.S. President And Nobel Laureate Humanitarian, Dies At 100
Jimmy Carter’s Underappreciated Footprint In Africa
