The Rev. Louis Coleman Jr. - one of Louisville's most well-known civil rights leaders - passed away Saturday, June 5^th.  He was 64.

He founded the Justice Resource Center and the Black Chamber of Commerce, and served as the pastor of First Congregational Methodist Church in western Louisville. His civic life was focused on fighting for equality and fair treatment for minorities, women, and the poor, often organizing public protests to make his message heard and to gain the attention of Kentucky's political leaders. Discrimination, Rev. Coleman felt, violated the values of his faith and of democracy, and must be fought at every turn because, as he said, "It's the right thing to do."

Saturday afternoon, Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson and Congressman John Yarmuth issued statements about the Reverend's death:

"Reverend Coleman was a tireless fighter and a voice for those without a voice. We didn't always agree with each other, but I never doubted his dedication and devotion," said Mayor Abramson.

And Congressman Yarmuth said, "Our community and state have lost a tireless advocate for those whose voices were rarely heard and whose rights were often ignored.  Louis Coleman's passing leaves a vacuum that will be impossible to fill.  He often told me, in recent years, that he wished someone would step up and assume his role, but no one could.  Now, someone must. I will never forget his passion, his ferocity, his love, and something many people never saw, his humor.  His legacy will be a lasting one."

Rev. Coleman and the ACLU of Kentucky were partners on many issues including the campaign calling for a civilian review board to monitor the police department.  The ACLU of Kentucky will miss him deeply.