On Friday, May 8, 2020, Congressman Al Green reflected fondly on the life and legacy of former State Representative and Father of the Juneteenth Holiday, the Honorable Al Edwards. Congressman Al Green released the following statement:

“My friend and brother – the Honorable Al Edwards – was a very special person. He was a freedom fighter, and he will be remembered along with many other freedom fighters because freedom fighters are special people,” Congressman Al Green said, lamenting the life of former State Representative and Father of the Juneteenth Holiday Al Edwards. “Rosa Parks was a freedom fighter. Only she could have ignited the spark that started the Civil Rights Movement. Many others tried but did not succeed to the extent that she did. The great Thurgood Marshall was a freedom fighter. He won 29 of 32 cases fought before the Supreme Court of the United States, a more than 90 percent success rate. My suspicion is that no one else could have fought and won the cases Thurgood Marshall fought and won during a time of heightened tensions in our country.”

“The Honorable Al Edwards was a freedom fighter. He fought hard to get Juneteenth recognized as a holiday in the State of Texas. He did it at a time when few thought that he could succeed. It was one of those times when Texas may not have been ready, but Al was, and he got it done.”

Congressman Green added, “Al and I had a mutually respectful and supportive friendship. He was one of my first supporters when I announced my initial campaign for Congress. I consistently supported his efforts to not only commemorate but educate communities on the history and rich culture behind Juneteenth and emancipation. We were often mistaken for one another since we both went by ‘Al.’”

“My deepest condolences are extended to the Edwards family as well as all friends and community members during this time of bereavement. As we celebrate his life and grieve his passing, let us commit to celebrating his legacy today, tomorrow, and every Juneteenth. As we approach the Juneteenth holiday this and every year, let us teach our children about the things that Al fought for at the State Capitol. Let us inform them of who he was and honor the life he lived in the best way each of us can.”