Statement from HUD Secretary Julián Castro on the
Passing of Senator Edward Brooke
Sunday, January 4, 2015

​​​WASHINGTON - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Julián Castro issued the following statement today on the passing of former Massachusetts Senator Edward Brooke:

I was truly saddened to learn of Senator Brooke's passing yesterday. From his time in the U.S. Army during World War II to his groundbreaking work as the first African-American Senator elected since the Reconstruction Era, Senator Brooke dedicated his life to serving others. At HUD, we also remember him as a champion for fair housing. In a turbulent time, he spoke for those who couldn't speak for themselves—the poorest Americans who faced discrimination in its many forms. As a co-author of the Fair Housing Act of 1968, Senator Brooke was instrumental in establishing HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity as that law's enforcement mechanism. To this day, ensuring that every American is protected from discrimination when it comes to choosing a place to live remains a core mission for the Department-and one we're proud to uphold. Our thoughts and prayers are with Senator Brooke's family and friends."

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