John Conyers was a great son of the African American people and a leader of the progressive movement for more than a half century. He was one of those extraordinary African American leaders that grew up in and came out of Detroit decades ago. Much of what animates today’s movement and frames the current conversation in the Democratic presidential primary were John’s talking points a half century ago. He wasn’t perfect, but, oh my, what courage he possessed and when it came to fighting for equality, justice, and peace, he was fearless. And the guy was cool! I’m saddened.

Here is his obituary in the NYT: