Clyburn Statement on Mandela

WASHINGTON —  Assistant Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn released the following statement about the passing of former South Africa President Nelson Mandela:

“Today the world lost one of its greatest leaders and I have lost a personal hero. Nelson Mandela provided strength, stature and stability to his people during the darkest days of apartheid and led them into a new democracy as the first black president of South Africa.  He is a transcendent figure, whose legacy is immeasurable. My generation and so many that follow must pay homage for the sacrifices he made and the progress he achieved.  We should not mourn but celebrate the life of this beloved man.”