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PONAN Statement on Passing of Dear Friend Aretha Franklin
—Aug 16, 2018
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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.