Representative John Lewis: In Memoriam
Long serving Representative John Lewis passed away Friday, July 17, 2020. He passed after a six month battle with cancer. The Life, Liberty, And Pursuit Of Happiness Project recognizes him for his efforts in the Civil Rights Movement and the fight for equality.
Representative Lewis was known for passionate speeches, having spoken at the 1963 March On Washington. He was also known for his embodiment of non-violent resistance in his fight for civil rights. Some called him the “Conscience of the Congress” because of his efforts and clear moral stands. During his protests and demonstrations, he was, by his own count, arrested more than 40 times, reminding us that what is right and what is legal are not always the same thing.
Congressman Lewis gave correct counsel and encouragement when he said to students, “When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have a moral obligation to do something, to say something, and Dr. King inspired us to do just that.”
Representative Lewis shared an important and meaningful experience he had in 2009 where we met someone who had beaten him bloody decades earlier.
“Many years later, in February of ’09, one of the men that had beaten us came to my Capitol Hill office — he was in his 70’s, with his son in his 40’s — and he said, ‘Mr. Lewis, I am one of the people who beat you and your seat mate'” on a bus, Lewis said, adding the man said he had been in the KKK. “He said, ‘I want to apologize. Will you accept my apology?'”
After Representative Lewis accepted the apology and hugged the father and son, the three men cried together.
“It is the power in the way of peace, the way of love,” Lewis said. “We must never, ever hate. The way of love is a better way.”
Representative John Lewis’ policy views may not always have completely aligned with the principles upon which the Life, Liberty, And Pursuit Of Happiness Project was founded, but his efforts for civil rights and racial equality are absolutely worth recognition and appreciation. Condolences are extended to Congressman Lewis’ family and friends. Gratitude for his work, example, and love are extended to Representative John Lewis himself.
Garrett Leeds is the founder of the Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness Project
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