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Rep. Grace Meng Issued the Following Statement on the Death of Nelson Mandela

December 5, 2013
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) this evening issued the following statement on the death of Nelson Mandela:
"It is with great sadness that I learn about the death of Nelson Mandela.
Nelson Mandela is a hero for delivering freedom to millions of South Africans. But his greatest legacy will be what he did next. With great moral courage, he chose reconciliation over reprisal, forgiveness over spite and love over hate. In so doing, he built a South Africa for all, enshrined by one of the most just, fairest, and progressive Constitutions in the world. The result is a democratic South Africa that is building bridges in its own land and throughout Africa.
Nelson Mandela has inspired me in my public life to offer a voice for the voiceless, and keep faith that the human race can always overcome that which divides it.
I extend my deepest sympathies to Nelson Mandela's family as well as the people of South Africa, who have all lost a father. His legency and historic achievements will never be forgotten."