WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Edolphus “Ed” Towns (NY-10) released the following statement today in memory of the passing of Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, former president of the National Council of Negro Women and legendary female leader of the civil rights movement:

“Today, we mourn the passing of a legendary hero of the civil rights movement, Dr. Dorothy I. Height.

“Dr. Height devoted her life to breaking down barriers and fighting for a brighter future for an entire nation. She fought tirelessly for equality for African Americans, women and the disabled, and fought for school desegregation, voting rights and gender equality. From marching in the New York City streets as a teenager to marching with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to becoming the sole woman who served at the highest level of leadership in the civil rights movement, Dr. Height was a powerful activist whose crusade of more than six decades laid a strong foundation that forever changed the United States.

“For more than four decades, Dr. Height served as president of the National Council of Negro Women where she advised American leaders on civil rights. Dr. Height was also an esteemed member and former national president of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. In all of her leadership positions, Dr. Height advocated for access to education, particularly for African American women.   

“In honor of Dr. Height’s work as a New York City welfare caseworker, I introduced and dedicated social work legislation in her name. H.R. 795, the ‘Dorothy I. Height and Whitney M. Young, Jr. Social Work Reinvestment Act’ addresses the challenges to the social work profession and supports social work as a means to enhance societal well-being. As a professional social worker, I have always found inspiration in Dr. Height’s lifelong dedication to our shared occupation.  Throughout her life, Dr. Height carried out the mission and services of a social work – pushing for social change and improving the quality of life for all Americans.

“I am deeply saddened about the passing of a true hero and my friend, Dr. Dorothy I. Height. I extend my condolences to Dr. Height’s family and friends.”

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