December 19, 2012

Statement by HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan
on the Passing of Senator Daniel K. Inouye December 19, 2012

"I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Senator Inouye. We have lost a tireless advocate for fairness and opportunity who dedicated his life to helping others, both in his native Hawaii and across the country.

"Senator Inouye served with distinction in World War II and returned home to continue a career of public service, becoming the first Japanese-American to serve in Congress. Indeed, even before Hawaii was a state, Daniel Inouye was fighting for its families.

"In his passionate support for the rights of the underserved, particularly women and minorities, his desire to ensure that all people had opportunities to succeed was paramount. From his steadfast Commitment to the Fair Housing Act to his support for the creation of the Native Hawaiian Housing Block Grant Program— which has provided homes and counseling to thousands of Native Hawaiian families—Senator Inouye has been a lifelong partner in HUD's mission .

"Senator Inouye was a model soldier, citizen, and Senator and we will miss his support and counsel. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

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