LANSING, Mich. – All across Michigan, United States and state flags in public spaces will be flying at half-staff from today through Sunday to honor the late former Congressman John Conyers, who passed away Oct. 27 at the age of 90.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer released this order in remembrance of Conyers’ life and service to this state and country.
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“Congressman John Conyers was a lifelong Detroiter who was deeply committed to the city and to those he represented,” Whitmer said in the release. “His impact on our state, whether by spearheading reforms in criminal justice and voting rights in Congress or through his lifetime of civil rights activism, will not be forgotten. I extend my deepest condolences to Congressman Conyers’ family for their loss.”
WATCH LIVE: Funeral service for John Conyers Jr. in Detroit
Conyers is the longest-serving African American in Congress, with more than 50 years serving the state of Michigan. Conyers took his oath in 1965, during a tumultuous time for this country and the Civil Rights movement. He worked with leaders in the movement including Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and helped found the Congressional Black Caucus in 1969.
READ MORE: Friends, colleagues react to death of longtime Michigan Congressman John Conyers Jr.
According to the release, to lower flags to half-staff, flags should be raised first to the peak and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is then reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.
Michigan businesses, schools and residents are also encouraged to display flags at half-staff.
Conyers’ funeral service will be held today at the Greater Grace Temple on Seven Mile Road in Detroit. Watch live here.