NASA released the following statement on the passing of Nichelle Nichols:
We celebrate the life of Nichelle Nichols, Star Trek actor, trailblazer, and role model, who symbolized to so many what was possible. She partnered with us to recruit some of the first women and minority astronauts, and inspired generations to reach for the stars.
Bernice King released the following statement on the passing of Nichelle Nichols:
Representation matters.
Excellence in representation matters even more.
Thank you, Nichelle Nichols.
Rest well, ancestor.
Barack Obama released the following statement on the passing of NBA great Bill Russell:
Today, we lost a giant.
As tall as Bill Russell stood, his legacy rises far higher—both as a player and as a person.
Perhaps more than anyone else, Bill knew what it took to win and what it took to lead. On the court, he was the greatest champion in basketball history. Off of it, he was a civil rights trailblazer—marching with Dr. King and standing with Muhammad Ali.
For decades, Bill endured insults and vandalism, but never let it stop him from speaking up for what’s right. I learned so much from the way he played, the way he coached, and the way he lived his life.
Michelle and I send our love to Bill’s family, and everyone who admired him.
On July 30, 2022 Nichelle Nichols, best known as Lt. Uhura on the TV show Star Trek passed away. Her son released the following statement on her death:
Dear Friends, Fans, Colleagues, World,
I regret to inform you that a great light in the firmament no longer shines for us as it has for so many years.
Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away. Her light, however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from, and draw inspiration.
Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all.
I, and the rest of our family, would appre2ciate your patience and forbearance as we grieve her loss until we can recover sufficiently to speak further. Her services will be for family members and the closest of her friends and we request that her and our privacy be respected.
Live Long and Prosper,
Kyle Johnson
The family of NBA great Bill Russell released the following statement on his passing at the age of 88:
