December 17, 2014

Congresswoman Lee's Statement on the Passing of Rudy Lombard

Oakland, CA - Congresswoman Lee issued the following statement remembering the life and legacy of Rudy Lombard:

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Rudy Lombard. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and community.

Rudy’s passion, activism and leadership for justice have improved countless lives, including mine.

Rudy was larger than life – he was a Freedom Rider, a civil rights legend, a mayoral candidate, an author-chef and a public health advocate.

I met Rudy during the 1970s and had the good fortune to witness more than four decades of his work to make the world a fairer and healthier place.   

His restaurant is Oakland, Lombards, became popular because of his delicious food and generous hospitality.

Over the years, his wisdom and joy were a constant source of inspiration for me and many others.

Rudy will be sorely missed by the huge community of family, friends and activists who learned from him over the years.

The Bay Area joins with those around the country, especially in his beloved hometown of New Orleans, in saying ‘well done thy good and faithful servant.’

We will miss Rudy but his spirit and legacy will live forever.”

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Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations and Budget Committees, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip’s Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity.