*Administration of Barack Obama, 2012 *

**Statement on the Death of John A. Payton **

*March 22, 2012 *

Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of our dear friend John Payton. As president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, John led the organization's involvement in five Supreme Court cases. A true champion of equality, he helped protect civil rights in the classroom and at the ballot box. The legal community has lost a legend, and while we mourn John's passing, we will never forget his courage and fierce opposition to discrimination in all its forms.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to John's family, the many students he taught, and those who love him.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : Deaths :: Payton, John A.

*Names:* Obama, Michelle; Payton, John A.

*Subjects:* Civil rights : Racial equality; Deaths : Payton, John A.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201200207.