WASHINGTON — Today, Hip Hop Caucus’ Associate Director of Respect My Vote! Chris Walton issued the following statement in response to the passing of U.S. Representative and civil rights champion Sheila Jackson Lee:

“U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) was a consummate legislator, friend and ally and Hip Hop Caucus is deeply saddened by her passing. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee was a longstanding, fierce advocate for Black people, for civil rights, and for those who are first and worst impacted by injustice in her district and across the nation. She was beloved by her family and Houston community and she will be dearly missed.”