NAACP - National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
07/30/2024 | Press release | Archived content
NAACP Mourns the Loss of Gail Lumet Buckley, Black American Historian
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 30, 2024
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, [email protected]
WASHINGTON - NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement mourning the passing of Gail Lumet Buckley:
"Coming from the trailblazing bloodline of Spingarn Medalist and Image Awardee, Lena Horne, Gail Lumet Buckley spent her life as the author and documentarian of her family's rich history. From the Reconstruction and the rise of Jim Crow in Atlanta to the Harlem Renaissance in New York City, Gail preserved the many layers of Black American history within the pages of her books.
In a world where Black History is ever-challenged, those who task themselves with the preservation of our stories are heroes in their own right. Gail's legacy will be carried on not only by the loved ones she's left behind, but by her NAACP family and all those who may come after her. While we mourn this profound loss, we find solace in the fact that Gail's contributions to our community will live on for centuries to come."
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About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund - also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.