In response to today’s tragic news of the passing of former Houston Mayor and Congressman Sylvester Turner, the African American Mayors Association (AAMA) issued the following statement:

“Today, we mourn the heartbreaking loss of former Houston Mayor and current Congressman Sylvester Turner, a visionary leader, a fierce advocate for justice, and former President of AAMA. Mayor Turner dedicated his life to serving the city of Houston and beyond, embodying resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to equity,” said AAMA President and Montgomery, AL Mayor Steven L. Reed. “I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand his tireless efforts to uplift marginalized communities and champion transformative change; he was my friend. His legacy will live on, both in the city and community that he spent his life’s work uplifting, and in our hearts. On behalf of the African American Mayors Association, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the city of Houston. Let us honor his memory by continuing the work he so passionately believed in—building stronger, fairer cities and communities for all.”  

“I had the privilege of being hired under his leadership as the first CEO of AAMA,” said Phyllis Dickerson, CEO of AAMA. “While attending a dinner last week at the Colombian Embassy, I was able to hug him for the last time. We will miss him dearly.”