IL SJR0129

Bishop Arthur Brazier died on October 22, 2010; he served as pastor of the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago for 48 years until his retirement in 2008.

Brazier was a civil rights activist who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., brought MLK Jr. to Chicago in 1964, and fought against gang violence, segregation, and for affordable housing in his community.

Brazier founded the Woodlawn Organization, the Woodlawn Preservation and Investment Corporation, and the Fund for Community Redevelopment and Revitalization; he also served on Chicago's Public Buildings Commission and lectured at major universities.

Brazier authored three books: "Black Self-Determination," "Saved by Grace and Grace Alone," and "Delivery Systems for Model Cities."

The Illinois General Assembly mourns his passing and expresses sympathy to his surviving wife Isabelle, son Dr. Byron T. Brazier, three daughters, 7 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.