This Day in History: Remembering Congressman John Lewis, Born in 1940

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Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., speaks after being presented with the Liberty Medal for his dedication to civil rights during a ceremony at the National Constitution Center, Monday, Sept. 19, 2016, in Philadelphia. The honor is given annually to an individual who displays courage and conviction while striving to secure liberty for people worldwide. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
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On this day, we remember Congressman John Lewis, born on February 21, 1940. A champion for human rights, Lewis served as the Democratic U.S. Representative for ‘s 5th congressional district from 1987 until his passing in 2020. As the dean of Georgia’s congressional delegation and one of the “Big Six” leaders of the movement, his legacy is profound.

Lewis was a founding member and later chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, leading sit-ins, Freedom Rides, and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. His unwavering commitment to nonviolent led to multiple arrests and national respect.

Democratic presidential candidate, former Vice President Joe Biden and Jill Biden touch the flag-draped casket of the late Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., as he lies in state at the Capitol in Washington, Monday, July 27, 2020. (Jonathan Ernst/Pool via AP)

Lewis passed away in 2020 at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of courage, justice, and enduring hope.


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