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Statement from Mayor Bowser on the Passing of Dr. Janette Hoston Harris

Saturday, November 3, 2018

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Bowser released the following statement on the passing of Dr. Janette Hoston Harris:

“Our city and our nation have lost a trailblazer, a champion for civil rights, and a woman of many firsts. When we talk about standing on the shoulders of those who came before us, we are referring to the likes of Dr. Janette Hoston Harris. Dr. Harris fought, sacrificed, and paved the way for women and generations of people of color. She was a courageous leader who helped define history, and served as an inspiration to all who she encountered. Today, my thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. Dr. Harris has our eternal gratitude for all she contributed to our great city and nation.”

Biography: Dr. Janette Hoston Harris led a life of public service including:

  • leading the first and largest sit-in movement in Louisiana;
  • becoming a teacher in DC Public Schools;
  • serving as campaign manager for the Carter Mondale re-election campaign;
  • directing the Mayor's Office of Intergovernmental Relations under Mayor Marion S. Barry, Jr.;
  • serving as the first-ever appointed historian for the District; and
  • being appointed by Mayor Muriel Bowser to the D.C. Commission to Commemorate and Recognize the Honorable Marion S. Barry Jr.