Washington D.C. – House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith released the following statement on the passing of Nelson Mandela: 

“Today, the world lost one of its most cherished leaders. While Nelson Mandela, the man, is now gone, his legacy will endure. He will forever be a source of inspiration for those who struggle against racial oppression and injustice around the world. He was a pioneer for freedom and equality and had the bravery to love his opponents as much as his supporters.

 “Mandela spent his entire life fighting against the shackles of oppression and after 27 years of imprisonment, he won freedom for his country and set a lasting example that the world will never forget. Mandela’s life shows how one man can truly change the world. May he rest in peace.”