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PONAN Statement on Passing of Dear Friend Aretha Franklin
—Aug 16, 2018
REV. AL SHARPTON TO HOLD MEDIA AVAILABILITY ON THE PASSING OF HIS DEAR FRIEND ARETHA FRANKLIN AT 6TH AVE. AND 49TH ST. AT 11:45 A.M.
WHAT:
Media availability with the Rev. Al Sharpton following this morning’s passing of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul
WHERE:
Corner of 6th Avenue and 49th St.
New York, NY
WHEN:
11:45 a.m.
The below statement is attributable to Rev. Al Sharpton:
Most people knew Aretha for her chart-topping hits that cut to the core of the human experience – no matter your background. But I knew Aretha for the civil rights and humanitarian icon that many forget: the Aretha that uplifted her community and the civil rights movement through unbelievable generosity, valuable counsel, and unfailing integrity and activism – backed up by an unmatched humility and commitment to serve. Throughout our lives, I came to know Aretha very well – she became a big sis to me, and I am a luckier man for it. The world will never forget her music, and I will never forget her tremendous spirit and the example she set for us all. Today I stand tall with her family and friends as we pray for her soul to be at ease.