Statement by Ambassador Susan E. Rice, on the Passing of Dr. Dorothy Height

Susan E. Rice
U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations 
U.S. Mission to the United Nations 

New York, NY

April 20, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

I was deeply saddened today to learn of the passing of Dr. Dorothy Height, an icon of the Civil Rights movement and a national treasure. When, as a young woman, she was denied enrollment to college because of her race, she decided to persist elsewhere with her education. It was clear from that moment that Dorothy Height would be a determined fighter for civil rights and equality – but no one could have predicted that her tireless work would span eight decades and cross oceans.  She fought against the exploitation of women, against poverty and injustice, and took her fight abroad to help combat AIDS in Africa.  In her words, in her deeds, and with her courage she inspired so many Americans. She first became well-known because of the opportunities that were denied to her, but she will forever be remembered for the opportunities she created for others.

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