DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson has issued the following statement regarding the death of renowned author, poet, educator, and activist, Maya Angelou:

“Today our nation and the world mourn the loss of an indomitable spirit who touched and enhanced our lives through literature and social action,” said Chairman Mendelson. “Maya Angelou was the embodiment of grace and power. Her love of the arts was the platform upon which she was able to convey universal messages of peace, tolerance, and equality. Her genius remains in the body of work she leaves behind to inform future generations.”