ISTA mourns the loss of state Rep. William 'Bill' Crawford
09/26/2015

 

ISTA mourns the loss of state Rep. William “Bill” Crawford (D-Indianapolis). Known to ISTA members as “Mr. Chairman” (in recognition of his chairmanship of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee), Bill Crawford led by example, was an inspirational soldier for working men and women and the disadvantaged, and was an unabashed champion advocate for public education.

 

His 40-year tenure as a state legislator is filled with accomplishment. From the perspective of public school teachers and educational support professionals, he’s remembered for leading in the development of a string of school funding formulas that addressed the state’s imperative to fund educational opportunities for all students—to give each student a fair chance at reaching Indiana’s academic standards—to remember the whole child. And he understood the value to students everywhere in increasing the number of minority teachers in this state—and authored Indiana’s minority teacher scholarship program.

 

Here are just a handful of the many reflections made by those with whom he worked at the Statehouse:

 

“He was a giant among men. He was a legend, even as he lived. No one in the history of Indiana was a stronger voice for the voiceless. The echoes are everlasting. I will never forget these things. Most of all, I will remember his winning smile, which could fill and illuminate an entire room.”  House Democratic Leader Rep. Scott Pelath (Michigan City)

 

“Bill was a real partner in getting the kind of budget our state needed, budgets with gains for education for all of Indiana’s students and budgets with a conscience that included social programs benefiting our state’s citizenry. Bill’s legislative contributions were incredibly positive for our state and its residents. A natural leader, like Bill, comes along once in a lifetime, if you are lucky. Indiana was indeed blessed to have such a dedicated and compassionate statesman serve for so many years.” -  Rep. B Patrick Bauer (D-South Bend) and Speaker of the House during Chairman Crawford’s time as Ways and Means Chairman

 

“Bill Crawford was an incredible man, and the most influential African-American public servant leader and mentor in our state’s history. He was a trailblazer and drum major for justice. His journey throughout life as an advocate, bridge-builder and peacemaker was second to no one. From my perspective, he was anointed and well-equipped to bring light on the disparities so many faced on issues like education, health and housing.” -  Rep. Greg Porter (D-Indianapolis)

 

“Bill Crawford was a deeply respected colleague in the Indiana House of Representatives. A consummate gentleman and constant advocate for Central Indiana, I had the honor to serve alongside Bill for many years. As a former Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and the longest-serving African-American legislator in our state’s history, Bill leaves behind a sterling legacy of selfless public service. He will be truly missed.” - Speaker of the House Rep. Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis)

 

“I had the honor of working with Bill Crawford for a number of years, particularly during his service as Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. Bill was an honorable man, and a true fighter for his constituents and the issues he passionately believed in. We will all miss him.” -  President Pro Tempore Sen. David Long (R-Fort Wayne)

 

Since his passing, many have remembered an oft-quoted statement attributable to Bill that gives one a small glimpse into both his keen insight and his quick humor:  “If you are not at the table, then you are probably on the menu.” 

 

Mr. Chairman, from the bottom of the hearts of ISTA members everywhere, thank you for your countless good works while taking your rightful place at that table. Hoosiers are better for having had you on their side. May you rest in peace and may your memory be eternal.