10/27/2026
Statement from SCLC President/CEO DeMark Liggins, Sr. on the passing of Tom Houck.
"Atlanta, GA (October 24, 2026) - The Southern Christian Leadership Conference mourns the passing of Tom Houck, a former member of our national staff whose commitment to justice began as a young man and remained evident throughout his life.
Tom belonged to a generation that understood the struggle for civil rights required personal conviction, courage, and a willingness to serve. As a young white man in the segregated South, he chose to stand alongside those challenging the injustices of that era, eventually joining SCLC during a consequential period in our organization's history. His service brought him into close association with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Hosea Williams, Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr., and other SCLC leaders. Through voter registration, community organizing, and the Poor People's Campaign, Tom contributed to the organized efforts that helped transform our nation and advance the principles of nonviolence and social justice.
I had the privilege of being introduced to Tom by our late Chairman, Dr. Bernard LaFayette, Jr. Their friendship grew from a shared history of service and continued through their commitment to preserving and sharing the experiences of those who helped shape the movement. The two often worked together as storytellers of that history, bringing to life the people, institutions, and sacrifices behind some of the most consequential changes in American society. Tom carried that responsibility with a deep appreciation for the history of SCLC and the importance of ensuring that future generations understood the work and the people who made progress possible.
His passing reminds us of the responsibility we carry as the generation that follows those who participated directly in these historic struggles. Their experiences, relationships, and contributions remain essential to understanding our nation's progress and the institutions that helped make it possible. Preserving that history strengthens our ability to continue the pursuit of justice and equality.
On behalf of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, we extend our sincere condolences to Tom's family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We remain grateful for his legacy, his leadership, and the love and contributions he made throughout his life."
