His story is the classic American dream, minority edition:

Colin Powell, son of Jamaican immigrants, was raised in the South Bronx, joined the US Army after community college, survived two combat tours in Vietnam, and later ascended to the pinnacle of American power, serving as the nation's first Black National Security Advisor, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Secretary of State.

That journey alone would merit our admiration.

But Gen. Colin Powell was more than a glittering resume.

After retiring from government, he continued to serve his country by empowering youth from at-risk backgrounds whose dreams were less ambitious, perhaps, but just as American: safe and affordable housing, access to health care and education, equal opportunity, and a chance at a better life for themselves and their families. In other words, dignity.

"A dream doesn't become reality through magic," Powell once said. "It takes sweat, determination, and hard work." He also said, "We can't wait around for Superman or Superwoman to come save the day."

For Colin Powell, our national Superman disguised as Clark Kent, we at LCLD lend our voice to the chorus of fellow Americans who mourn the passing of this exemplary figure, who so embodies the values we hold dear.

In doing so, we honor Gen Powell's belief in the contributions—the greatness—that diversity and inclusion can bring to the United States of America, generation after generation.

May his spirit live on.