The Board of Directors of the National Endowment for Democracy extends its deepest sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Congressman Tom Lantos, who died today, February 11, 2008.
“The loss of Tom Lantos will be felt around the world, as those who fight for freedom and human dignity everywhere have lost a true friend and ally,” said NED Chairman Vin Weber.
Congressman Lantos’ contribution to the struggle for human rights and democracy was historic. “Tom was astoundingly eloquent and passionately committed when he spoke about human rights,” said NED president Carl Gershman. “He not only spoke from the heart, but he acted with a fierce determination born of a lifetime of struggle. He knew all the dissidents personally, visited them whenever he could, and identified with their suffering and spirit. He was not only their chief advocate but also a cherished symbol of our nation’s commitment to human freedom.”
