Norton Mourns Loss of D.C. Resident and Activist A.J. Cooper

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) said she was deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the death of a promising young District of Columbia resident, activist A.J. Cooper, who, at age 34, suddenly passed away from a heart attack earlier today. Norton said that she has spoken with Peggy Cooper Cafritz, her good friend and A.J.'s aunt, to express her condolences, and she sends her thoughts and prayers to the entire family and friends of A.J. Cooper.

"In his short life, A.J. had managed to leave his mark on the city," Norton said. "I first got to know A.J. when he broke the mold on the issue of teen pregnancy as policy director for the D.C. Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy. A.J. provided leadership where many young Black men might have left the issue to female advocates. He cast a new light on the issue of teen pregnancy, what we should all be doing about it, and the responsibility we all have for all our children. Not only did A.J. care about future generations, but he was invested in their future and in the future of this city and its residents. My heart aches for his family and all those who were touched by his passion and talent."