Statement on Passing of Former Ward 1 Councilmember Jim Graham

At-Large D.C. Councilmember Elissa Silverman today released the following statement after learning of former Ward 1 Councilmember Jim Graham’s passing:

“I am saddened to hear of the passing of former Ward 1 Councilmember Jim Graham. He led a fascinating life: clerking for Supreme Court Justice Earl Warren, later coming out as a gay man and leading the Whitman-Walker Clinic in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and being a champion for not only LGBTQ rights but also equality, inclusion, and diversity on the Council.

I admired his advocacy on behalf of some of our most vulnerable residents, fighting for poor and working families in our city on issues such as TANF. He was also a fierce defender of the needs of Ward 1 and his constituents.

I had a special appreciation for him as a colorful and dramatic figure in our city when I authored Loose Lips for Washington City Paper.

I offer my sincere condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”