The Office of Congressman Kweisi Mfume released the following statement:
"Today, the first day of Kwanzaa, is a fitting end for a man who embodied Umoja or Unity. The day after Christmas, where for Christians the child Jesus was given for humanity, is also fitting for a man who put the message of Christ before himself and on behalf of the destitute and downtrodden not only in his native South Africa but all across our world. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 as testament to his efforts to bring down the scourge of apartheid in South Africa in a way that would prevent violence and bloodshed. The Most Reverend Archbishop Desmond Tutu was not only a man of the cloth but more importantly was a man of forgiveness and reconciliation as evidenced by his leadership of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee in post-apartheid South Africa. We will remember this brightest of lights who touched his nation for the cause of equality and peace and gave the world the conscience of his convictions and faith. Rest In Peace Archbishop Desmond Tutu," said Congressman Kweisi Mfume.