OAKLAND, CA — This weekend, two of the most profound figures of the Civil Rights Movement, Reverend James Lawson and Reverend Phillip Lawson, announced their strong endorsement of congresswoman and leading progressive candidate for U.S. Senate Barbara Lee. The announcement came on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the national holiday commemorating MLK Jr.’s life and legacy — notably gains made for civil rights in the 1960s, of which James and Philip Lawson played an integral role.

“Congresswoman Lee is a steadfast champion in forging the future without poverty, racism, and militarism that we marched for with Dr. King,” said Reverends James and Phillip Lawson. “When so many seek to sow division and hatred, she leads with a clear vision of peace and justice. The fire with which she fights for that vision gives us hope that the better world we dream of will come to be.”

The Lawson brothers’ dual endorsement grows the powerful assembly of over 90 Black religious leaders throughout California who echo support for Congresswoman Lee for centering vulnerable members of society in her priorities, and advancing policies that uplift their needs. The faith-based coalition is the latest demonstration of the deep resonance of her peace-driven record and distinct lens of racial, gender, and social justice with California’s communities of color.

“MLK Day is not just an opportunity to celebrate Dr. King and the immense amount of progress he heralded — it’s a chance to celebrate the powerful movement he inspired, and the changemakers that were core to its continued application,” said Congresswoman Lee. “Reverend James Lawson and Reverend Phillip Lawson have helped to blaze a historic trail that makes it possible for someone like me, a Black woman who grew up in a segregated town in El Paso, to serve in the halls of Congress. I draw from their courage and conviction to fight for even more justice for the generations behind me.”