DETROIT, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Former Congressman John Conyers Jr. has passed away at the age of 90 as announced by members of his family.
Conyers was the longest-serving African-American Congressman, having served since the presidency of Lyndon B. Johnson. He represented parts of Detroit and was known for his Civil Rights activism.
His family released the following statement Sunday following the news of his passing:
“Congressman Conyers was a devoted father and husband and his world revolved around securing justice against racial and economic discrimination. A founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and throughout his 53 years in U.S. Congress, Conyers authored or sponsored legislation that impacted the lives of millions; including the Martin Luther King Holiday Act. His legacy and advocacy for human rights will live on forever. We thank you for the outpouring of support and love at this difficult time.”
“My husband was a fighter; when your back was up against a wall, he was right there with you,” Conyers’ wife Monica said in a statement. “Not just for me, but for everyone.”
Senator Gary Peters’ released a statement following the news as well.
“From being in Selma, Alabama, on Freedom Day during the Civil Rights Movement — to co-founding the Congressional Black Caucus, chairing the House Judiciary Committee and becoming Dean of the House of Representatives — Congressman Conyers dedicated his life to fighting for civil rights,” Peters said in a statement. “While serving in Congress with him, I saw firsthand his dedication and passion for his beloved City of Detroit and the Congressional district he represented. Colleen and I send our sympathies to the Conyers family during this time.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer also issued a statement about Conyers.
“Congressman John Conyers was a lifelong Detroiter who was deeply committed to the city and to those he represented,” Whitmer said. “His impact on our state, whether by spearheading reforms in criminal justice and voting rights in Congress or through his lifetime of civil rights activism, will not be forgotten. I extend my deepest condolences to Congressman Conyers’ family for their loss.”
Conyers’ long career included a position as the Dean of the House of Representatives, co-founding the Congressional Black Caucus, and two runs for the Mayor of Detroit, among others.
He retired from his postition in 2017 after numerous sexual harassment allegations.
He is survived by his wife, Monica, and two sons, John and Carl.
