The NAACP Mourns the Passing of Football Legend, Activist, and Actor Jim Brown

The NAACP mourns the passing of legendary athlete, actor, and community activist, Jim Brown. Brown not only paved the way for Black men to excel in professional football, but was also known for his activism and charity work in the Black community.

Jim Brown came up during a severely oppressive time for Black people in America and, despite his adversities, broke through barriers of discrimination to become known as the greatest running back to play in the NFL.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Brown was an active community member. He served as the Vice President of the Beverly Hills/Hollywood Branch of the NAACP for a term. During his time in office, and well after, fellow community members recognized him as one to frequent charitable giving, community service, and advocacy for disadvantaged people. Jim Brown was also general manager of the 11th NAACP Image Awards, the first year that the event was co-hosted with the national office of the NAACP. In 1970, Brown was nominated for, and won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for "El Condor."

The NAACP feels the loss of this most talented and dedicated advocate. He will be deeply missed by the communities he served and the lives he inspired. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones during this time.