Washington, D.C. – The DC Black Church Initiative (NBCI), a coalition of African American faith communities dedicated to eradicating racial disparities, has issued a heartfelt and respectful request for DC Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton to resign from her position. At 82 years old, the NBCI believes it is time for a new generation of leadership to take the helm in the fight for justice and equality.
Reverend Anthony Evans, President of the DC Black Church Initiative, expressed the difficulty of this decision, saying, “This is hard for me and other clergy. We love Eleanor, but the scripture says there is a time for everything, and now it is her time.” The NBCI emphasized their gratitude for Congresswoman Norton’s decades of service and her remarkable legacy, while urging her to step aside with dignity to allow the voters of D.C. to elect a younger leader who can continue the fight for civil rights and democracy.
A Legacy of Service and Accomplishment
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton has had an extraordinary career, marked by groundbreaking achievements and tireless advocacy for the people of Washington, D.C. Before her tenure in Congress, she was appointed by President Jimmy Carter as the first woman to chair the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Her work as a civil rights and feminist leader, law professor, and board member of Fortune 500 companies made her a national figure even before she entered public office.
During her time in Congress, Norton has been a champion for D.C. residents, securing significant economic benefits and advocating for full congressional voting representation and democracy for the District. Her accomplishments include:…