Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Willie Mays

New Delhi – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement on the passing of San Francisco baseball legend Willie Mays:

“Giants fans — and all Americans — mourn the loss of a San Francisco icon and an all-time great: Willie Mays.  The Say Hey Kid was a trailblazer, from the baseball diamond to the fight for civil rights.  A generational talent with an unbreakable spirit, he was dazzling to watch play ball as he paved a path from the Negro Leagues to Major League Baseball to the Hall of Fame.  And in overcoming racism and discrimination on the field, Willie opened the doors to the dugout for generations of Black athletes.

“Willie is just as beloved for his leadership for justice off the field.  Through his Say Hey Foundation, Willie Mays Scholars and the Willie Mays Boys and Girls Club of San Francisco, he created opportunities for countless underserved children.  Personally, it was my special privilege to partner with him on efforts to end violence against women and support survivors of domestic violence, another cause close to his heart.

“When the Congress dedicated a statue to his fellow Alabama native Rosa Parks in the U.S. Capitol, he sent me a letter to read, writing: ‘Most times, change doesn’t happen fast.  Most times, it happens bit by bit, little by little, one person’s actions inspiring another.  Rosa Parks simply did what was natural.  And that simple act sparked outrage, and that outrage spread, and one person’s actions inspired change.  We will try to remember to encourage change when it serves justice.’

“Willie Mays was a national treasure who left an indelible imprint on the lives of generations of Americans.  May it be a comfort to his son, Michael, his dear friend, John Shea, and all his loved ones that so many today pray for them during this sad time and remain committed to carrying on Willie’s extraordinary legacy.”