John Lewis, a towering figure in the Civil Rights Movement, played a key role in historic events like the March on Washington and the Selma marches. His advocacy for nonviolent protest and voting rights shaped American history. As a Congressman, he continued to fight for justice, contributing to significant legislation and inspiring future generations to engage in 'Good Trouble' for social change.
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John Lewis was born and raised in Troy, Alabama, and was deeply influenced by the teachings of nonviolence during his education at the American Baptist Theological Seminary and Fisk University
Nashville Student Movement
Lewis's activism began with his participation in the Nashville Student Movement's sit-ins, where he challenged racial segregation
Freedom Rides
Lewis was one of the original Freedom Riders, who challenged interstate bus segregation and brought attention to the violent resistance to civil rights
Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC)
Lewis's leadership in the SNCC played a crucial role in advancing the Civil Rights Movement and effecting change in the United States
Lewis's leadership and activism in pivotal events, such as the March on Washington and the Selma to Montgomery marches, were instrumental in bringing about legislative and societal changes for racial equality
Lewis's relentless advocacy and activism served as a catalyst for the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which aimed to overcome legal barriers that prevented African Americans from exercising their right to vote
Elimination of Literacy Tests
The Voting Rights Act's provisions, such as the elimination of literacy tests, were monumental steps towards racial equality in the United States
Federal Oversight of Voter Registration
The Act's provision for federal oversight of voter registration in areas with a history of discrimination helped to safeguard voting rights
Lewis continued to work for the strengthening and enforcement of the Voting Rights Act throughout his career, introducing the Voter Empowerment Act in 2012
Lewis's concept of 'Good Trouble' reflects his belief in the necessity of civil disobedience and peaceful protest to challenge and change unjust laws and systems
Freedom Rides and Sit-ins
Lewis's participation in the Freedom Rides and sit-ins were embodiments of 'Good Trouble', confronting and seeking to dismantle laws that enforced racial segregation
Advocacy for Voting Rights
Lewis's relentless advocacy for voting rights and his commitment to nonviolent protest were examples of 'Good Trouble' in action
Lewis's legacy of activism through 'Good Trouble' continues to inspire new generations to stand up against systemic injustice with courage and determination
Lewis's tenure in Congress was marked by his moral leadership and influential role in the passage of key legislation, such as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Lewis played a significant role in the establishment of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which stands as a testament to his dedication to social justice
Health Care as a Fundamental Human Right
Lewis was a staunch advocate for health care as a fundamental human right, reflecting his unwavering commitment to justice and equality
Lewis's moral leadership and unwavering commitment to justice earned him the moniker 'Conscience of the Congress', reflecting his impact and influence in the fight for civil rights and social justice
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______ ______ was born on ______ ______, 1940, in ______, ______ and became a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement.
John Robert
Lewis
February 21
Troy
Alabama
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Influenced by ______ ______ ______ Jr.'s philosophy, Lewis engaged in activism starting with ______ ______ ______ sit-ins.
Dr. Martin Luther King
Nashville Student Movement's
02
Lewis's leadership in the ______ ______ ______ ______ (SNCC) was pivotal in propelling the civil rights agenda in the U.S.
Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee
