Vernon Jordan, a civil rights activist and former advisor to President Bill Clinton, has died.
According to a statement from his daughter, Vickee Jordan Adams, Jordan died around 10 p.m. Monday night. The 85-year-old was surrounded by loved ones.
The influential thought leader was born in Atlanta where he became a field secretary for the Georgia NAACP. He was also executive director of the United Negro College Fund and head of the National Urban League. Through his leadership across the country, Jordan became the face of Black America's modern struggle for jobs and justice for more than a decade. He was shot and seriously injured by a white supremacist in 1980.
Jordan later transitioned to business and politics. He became President Bill Clinton's friend and advisor in the White House. The NAACP has released the following statement:
Today, the world lost an influential figure in the fight for civil rights and American politics, Vernon Jordan. An icon to the world and a lifelong friend to the NAACP, his contribution to moving our society toward justice is unparalleled. In 2001, Jordan received the NAACP’s Spingarn Medal for a lifetime of social justice activism. His exemplary life will shine as a guiding light for all that seek truth and justice for all people.
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms also released a statement following the passing of Jordan.
Congresswoman Nikema Williams, Chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia, released the following statement:
Today is a sad day in Georgia as we mourn the loss of another native son and giant of the Civil Rights Movement. Having grown up in segregated Atlanta, Vernon Jordan fought racism and injustice at home before rising to the highest echelons of American politics and business. He blazed countless trails and leaves a legacy of service, wisdom, friendship, and mentorship that has touched countless lives and will continue to impact generations to come.
