Boston
(February 16, 2021) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following
statement on the passing of former Massachusetts State Representative Doris
Bunte. Senator Markey served with Bunte in the Massachusetts State House from
1973-1976.
“When
there was no path, Doris Bunte charted one. When there was no example, Doris
Bunte became one. When there was no choice, Doris Bunte made history. Doris
Bunte was a fearless pioneer in the Massachusetts State House who never wavered
in her commitment to the principles she believed in – justice, integrity,
access to opportunity. When we served together in the State House, she was
counsel, inspiration, and friend. She taught me life-long lessons about the
dignity of a safe home, the power of womanhood, and the rights of every person
to lift themselves up and make a better world. All of us in Massachusetts owe
this history-maker and trailblazer endless gratitude. From her leadership
desegregating the Boston Housing Authority, to her advocacy for Roxbury
Community College, and her legacy creating Massachusetts’ first majority-Black
State Senate district, Doris dedicated her life and career to the fight for
justice. She spoke truth to power every day, and now it’s up to us to carry her
legacy forward. I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and
loved ones of Doris Bunte. We have all been blessed to have had her touch our
lives.”
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