For Immediate Release:  March 6, 2012
Contact: David Early, 202-429-7817
              Allison Sturma, 202-429-4725

(Washington) - The U.S. Institute of Peace mourns the passing of New Jersey Representative Donald M. Payne, who served the people of the 10th District of New Jersey. “Representative Payne was a powerful defender of peace, justice and human rights around the world. His impact on making the world a safer and more prosperous place has been enormous. We feel incredibly grateful to have worked with Representative Payne over the years. He will be deeply missed,” said Institute President Richard H. Solomon.

Rep. Payne was committed to prosperity in Africa as he led the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health and Human Rights and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. “He was admired for his deep commitment to the welfare of the people of Sudan and South Sudan and a tireless advocate for an effective and enlightened U.S. policy toward Africa,” said Institute Vice President David Smock, who worked with Representative Payne on efforts to bring peace to the region.

Rep. Payne was a strong defender of the Institute’s programs and encouraged his fellow House Members to support the Institute. A native of Newark, he became New Jersey’s first African American to be elected to the U.S. Congress in 1988. He was a senior member of the House Education and the Workforce Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee. He was also a leader on the Congressional Black Caucus and served as chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation.

The board, leadership and staff of the Institute extend its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Rep. Payne, especially his incredibly dedicated staff who were untiring in their work for a great American leader.

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