For Immediate Release

July 20, 2020 | WASHINGTON, DC

National Minority Quality Forum Statement on the Passing of the Honorable Congressman John Lewis

This week, America mourns the loss of the Honorable Congressman John Lewis–civil rights leader, civil servant, and minority health advocate.

Renowned for his leadership and the sacrifices he made for this country, the distinguished John Lewis’ leadership in health care policy has helped marginalized communities receive better care. He was an American hero and moral leader who dedicated his life to protecting our nation’s most vulnerable.

“His work with Medicare and Medicaid has provided millions of seniors, disabled persons, and members of minority communities with access to health care and medicine,” said National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) President and CEO Gary Puckrein, Ph.D.

Lewis, who was presented with the NMQF Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018, said protection of our most vulnerable must be a priority.

“We face significant challenges, but we cannot break that commitment of health care for the most vulnerable among us and I will not allow our budget to be balanced on the backs of people who can least afford it,” Lewis said. 

In honor of his leadership and advocacy, the Honorable John Robert Lewis Award will be awarded to an exemplary public policy advocate at the next NMQF Annual Summit on Health Disparities Gala.

“Our thoughts are with the Honorable John Lewis’ family at this difficult time,” Puckrein said. “We will never forget his work as an advocate for minority health care–and we plan to continue his legacy as we work to improve quality of care and patient outcomes for all populations.”

About the National Minority Quality Forum

The National Minority Quality Forum assists health care providers, professionals, administrators, researchers, policymakers, and community and faith-based organizations in delivering appropriate health care to minority communities. This assistance is based on providing the evidence in the form of science, research, and analysis that will lead to the effective organization and management of system resources to improve the quality and safety of health care for the entire U.S. population, including minorities.

Media Contact

Brandon Garrett | bgarrett@nmqf.org