For 98 years, our world was blessed by the love, generosity, and fierce determination of Lee Porter. Until her final days, she gave herself fully to the fight for civil rights and the work of building the beloved community.

For over 50 years, she led the Fair Housing Council of Northern New Jersey, transforming lives and communities. Fueled by her own experience, she challenged discriminatory housing practices—from government policies to individual prejudice—and helped thousands of families access the American dream.

My family was one of them.

Thanks to Lee Porter’s leadership, my parents were able to integrate our New Jersey town. Her work changed the trajectory of my life before I could even walk. And my story is just one of thousands.

Her legacy lives in the neighborhoods she helped open, in the communities she helped strengthen, and in the lives she empowered across generations.

My heart is with her family—and with all of us who were changed because she cared enough to fight for justice. We grieve her loss and celebrate the extraordinary life of Lee Porter.

— Cory