Congressman Cleaver's Statement on the Passing of Maya Angelou

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II released the following statement today on the passing of Maya Angelou, legendary poet, author, and activist:

"Today we lost one of America's most formidable authors, Dr. Maya Angelou," stated Congressman Cleaver, "a witness to history and a celebrated champion for equality, peace, and justice. Dr. Angelou exemplified grace and poise. Her writing expressed her emotions, allowing those who experienced it to delve deeper into the meaning of her literature. She lived her life so others could easily follow her lead, facing the world and its problems head on."

"Maya Angelou was a beautiful and gifted woman for 86 years which means that in her death, those of us who loved and respected her need not erect gilding. A few years ago, I took Dr. Angelou to dinner on the Plaza in Kansas City. There were a number of friends who joined in for dinner and all of them, of course, wanted to sit next to her. Dr. Angelou, however, insisted that my youngest son, Evan, sit next to her. He will never forget that evening, nor will I forget the grace and benevolence Dr. Angelou extended to my son. My deepest sympathies are with her son, Guy, and his family during this difficult time."

Born in 1928 in St. Louis, Missouri, Dr. Angelou's extensive works included seven autobiographies, three books of essays, and countless poems, as well as children's books, plays, films, and television shows. Her first autobiography, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, earned her international praise, chronicling her early years. Since 1982, Dr. Angelou had served as the lifetime Reynolds Professorship of American Studies at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. In 1993, she became the first poet to recite a poem at a presidential inauguration since Robert Frost did at President John F. Kennedy's in 1961, reciting her poem "On the Pulse of Morning" at President Clinton's inauguration. Her life, legacy, and words will continue to inspire us all.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and also serves as a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus.