John Lewis: Champion of Good Trouble and History-Maker Extraordinaire

John Lewis was more than just a politician; he was a true warrior for justice. His life story is a powerful testament to courage, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to civil rights. As a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, Lewis led the charge during pivotal moments like Bloody Sunday, dedicating his life to ensure that every American had the right to vote. His legacy extends beyond his time in office, forever etched in history as a symbol of relentless advocacy for justice.

Lewis was born on February 21, 1940, in Troy, Alabama, to sharecroppers. Growing up in the segregated South, he witnessed firsthand the injustices faced by African Americans. His experiences fueled his passion for change. Inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and his religious upbringing, he embraced nonviolent resistance as the essential path to fight for marginalized communities’ rights.

John Lewis speaking at a meeting of American Society of Newspaper Editors, Statler Hilton Hotel, Washington, D.C. Photo by Unseen Histories on Unsplash

His journey into activism accelerated during the 1960s when he emerged as one of the “Big Six” leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. During this transformative era, he became involved with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), organizing marches and sit-ins that targeted segregation throughout the South. One notable example was the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, where Lewis's courage became a national symbol for the fight for voter rights.

On March 7, 1965, known as Bloody Sunday, Lewis and fellow marchers were brutally attacked by law enforcement at the Edmund Pettus Bridge. This shocking event became a turning point for the country, stirring public outrage and igniting activism across the nation. In the aftermath, Lewis's bravery galvanized support, leading to the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This landmark legislation not only outlawed discriminatory voting practices but also significantly increased voter registration among African Americans; by 1966, the number of registered Black voters in the South had tripled.

Throughout his life, Lewis not only fought for voting rights but also embraced the concept of “good trouble.” This phrase, often associated with him, encourages making necessary disturbances in systems that promote inequality. He believed that everyone has a role in pushing for change and standing up against injustice.

Lewis transitioned into a political career, serving as a U.S. Representative for Georgia's 5th Congressional District from 1987 until his passing in 2020. In Congress, he continued to champion the causes dear to him, such as health care, education, and civil rights for marginalized communities. His passionate advocacy resonated with many, making him a beloved leader who tirelessly fought for those often overlooked. Notably, he was instrumental in the passage of health care legislation that expanded access for millions of Americans.

Nashville police officers carry John Lewis to a police wagon during a sit-in protest at Herschel’s Tic Toc restaurant, December 2, 1962. (Photo by Jimmy Ellis, American Academy of Achievement)

Reflecting on the life and legacy of John Lewis reveals a source of inspiration for all. His relentless spirit and the courageous stand he took on Bloody Sunday left a lasting imprint on history. As social justice issues remain pressing today, Lewis’s advocacy for “good trouble” inspires us to act.

John Lewis did not just encourage change; he firmly believed that the battle is ongoing. Each of us holds the power to create a difference, whether through community organizing, educating others, or advocating for policy reforms. His legacy urges us to continue the fight for justice, embracing the concept of good trouble to challenge injustice wherever we encounter it.

U.S. Representative John Lewis poses for a photo at Black Lives Matter plaza in Washington DC Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

In summary, John Lewis’s journey, from the son of a sharecropper to a pivotal Civil Rights leader, showcases the potential of individuals to change the world. His passionate pursuit of justice serves as a guiding light, pushing us to remember the past while actively shaping the future. Let us honor his legacy with our collective efforts for equality and justice, understanding that progress is essential for a thriving democracy.

*cover image Photo by Karen Pancho on Unsplash