Southern Company leaders respond to the passing of U.S. Congressman John Lewis
<p><b>Tom Fanning, Chairman, President and CEO, Southern Company-</b></p>
<p>“We are saddened by the passing of a national treasure, patriot and friend. We will remember what Rep. John Lewis taught us during his lifelong fight for racial equality, human rights and social justice using non-violent, peaceful means. Particularly today, we must apply these lessons, take action and keep marching in support of equality and fairness for all.”</p>
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<p><b>Paul Bowers, Chairman, President and CEO, Georgia Power-</b></p>
<p>"A pillar of the civil rights movement, Rep. John Lewis dedicated his life to human and civil rights, always in the forefront of the fight for racial justice. Rep. Lewis helped teach us that racism, intolerance or discrimination of any kind have no place in our communities. He was not only an icon of civil rights, but an advocate for all people. He served as a voice for Georgians across the state – ensuring all were heard. His loss will be felt as we continue the fight to end racism, building on his legacy dedicated to freedom, justice, and equality for all humankind."</p>
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<p><b>Kim Greene, Chairman, President and CEO, Southern Company Gas-</b></p>
<p>"We lost a giant. </p>
<p>Our hearts are heavy today as we join millions across the world in mourning the death of U.S. Rep. John Lewis — an iconic figure in the Civil Rights Movement, but an even better man. He leaves behind a life and legacy of peacefully fighting for racial justice, equality and humanity — sadly, causes that remain relevant at his death. While there are too many moments in his life’s work to draw from, it is this portion of his speech at the historic March on Washington in 1963 that serves as a haunting reminder of the work left unfinished.</p>
<p>“We do not want our freedom gradually, but we want to be free now! We are tired. We are tired of being beaten by policemen. We are tired of seeing our people locked up in jail over and over again. And then you holler, ‘Be patient.’ How long can we be patient? We want our freedom and we want it now. We do not want to go to jail. But we will go to jail if this is the price we must pay for love, brotherhood, and true peace.”</p>
<p>Today, I urge each of us to honor his legacy by reflecting on his work and becoming even more energized and focused on continuing the fight toward racial justice in America. </p>
<p>It is up to each of us to give life today to his words from nearly 60 years ago. And we must do that through our actions, not words.</p>
<p>Rest in Peace, John. You will always be our hero."</p>
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<p><b>Mark Crosswhite, Chairman, President and CEO, Alabama Power-</b></p>
<p>"Our hearts are saddened by the passing of U.S. Rep. John Lewis. Rep. Lewis was an iconic leader in the civil rights movement and dedicated his life to fighting for racial equality and human rights. While his journey began here in Alabama, he left a legacy throughout our country and across the world.</p>
<p>Today, let’s reflect on his lasting impact and how we can continue the work to end racism and build communities where all people are valued, respected and treated fairly."</p>
