CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Chicago community members are mourning the loss of longtime activist and community organizer.
The Reverend Walter "Slim" Coleman has died at the age of 80. A non-profit community run by Coleman's daughter announced his death earlier this week.
The Texas native and Harvard University graduate's activities in Chicago began with the Civil Rights and anti-war movements of the 1960's.
Coleman is remembered especially for his role in Harold Washington's historic campaign to become Chicago' first Black mayor in 1983 – in particular a major voter registration effort.
Longtime Congressman Bobby Rush describes Coleman as an extraordinary human, who contributed "so much to so many" during his lifetime.
"There would not have been a Harold Washington, there would not have been a Carol Moseley Braun, there would not have been a Barack Obama if not for the singular contribution of Slim Coleman," he said in a statement.
"Slim lives on. He will always be in our hearts and his spirit will continue to live in us. His life will always be a beacon to those who seek a more just and equitable life, and nation. Rest in peace, my brother."
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