John, Common Cause’s president, Karen Hobert Flynn, who passed away last Friday, dedicated her life to building a democracy that works for people.
As we mourn her loss, we celebrate her vision and strong leadership – and we take today to celebrate her legacy as a fierce defender of our common cause.
Karen started her first job at Common Cause in 1985, organizing with our Washington Connection – a nationwide volunteer force that was the model for today’s Common Cause Action Team – and fighting for a better democracy through the power of grassroots action.
Karen’s belief in the power of everyday people to make political change is reflected at every step of her career with Common Cause – from establishing Connecticut’s landmark public financing program in the 90s, to overseeing all of Common Cause’s state-level work, to leading our nationwide organization since 2016.
We’re so grateful to those who have reached out and shared memories, kind words, and tributes to Karen. Common Cause members like you have shared messages such as:
“Karen was a person that you thought would always be there... on the frontlines, doing what was right, leading effectively, and gaining allies every step of the way. And that's precisely what she did.” -Bernard K., Connecticut
“So sad to hear of her passing. CC is a beautiful legacy & testament to the kind of person she was.” -Juventino O., Texas
“I will miss seeing Karen in my inbox, thanking me for my donation, and making me feel like I am an important part of Common Cause. She was someone I admired, and she inspired me to do a little bit more. I am so sorry for her family, who will be bereft; I hope they will take some comfort knowing how beloved she was.” -Darren K., California
“I am heartbroken to imagine a world without Karen Hobert Flynn. I knew her as she moved from Connecticut executive director to Common Cause president—always a stalwart leader, focused on creating a better world, capable, full of common sense and generosity. And in the midst of her brilliant advocacy, she was also a proud parent to her sons. She was an incredible inspiration to me. What a loss to us all.” -Barb B., Minnesota
“Common Cause is synonymous with integrity, truth and the highest ideals of democracy and Karen Hobert Flynn is synonymous with Common Cause. What a loss for our nation, our government and the American people.” -Diane G., Colorado
You can read more tributes to Karen from other Common Cause members, partner groups, and allies at our website.
John, as we take time to reflect on Karen’s lifetime of service, I want to thank you – and all Common Cause members – for all you’ve done for our democracy.
We will always remember Karen not just for the transformative political change she spearheaded, but also for her kindness, leadership, and the thousands of activists, volunteers, and members she inspired.
Karen’s work will continue, and with your help, I truly believe we can achieve the inclusive, transparent, and fair democracy she fought so tirelessly for.
In this difficult time, I’m glad to have you with us.
Martha Tierney, Board Chair
and the team at Common Cause
P.S. One of the best ways to honor Karen and her lifetime of service is to join our Action Team – the same team Karen led. Sign up to join a nationwide network of activists and volunteers fighting for the democracy we all deserve.
