By Jay Jackson
(Source: AFRO)
The AFRO is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Rev. Graylan Scott Hagler, the activist who fought valiantly for civil and human rights, economic justice, adequate housing for all and peace.
Hagler was a fixture in the D.C. community and was pastor emeritus of Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ at the time of his death. He served in senior leadership at the church for 30 years. The congregation announced via social media that Hagler died in the early morning hours of Feb.17.
At 71, Hagler refused to let his health and age keep him on the sidelines. Even in his last year of life he was seen at protests in the District, calling for an end to the National Guard presence in D.C. Just days before he died, he published his last newsletter. Though he was ill, he mustered the strength to encourage all to resist the fascism, greed and lawlessness being promoted and encouraged in America.
Today, the AFRO sends a salute to Rev. Graylan Scott Hagler, the man who refused to be silenced when it came to making change and “good trouble.”