John Lewis: The Life and Legacy of a Civil Rights Icon

Written by Rough Ashlar with research assistance from ChatGPT

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John Lewis was a towering figure in American politics and civil rights activism. Born on February 21, 1940, in Troy, Alabama, Lewis went on to become one of the most prominent and influential leaders of the civil rights movement. He dedicated his life to fighting for justice and equality for all people, regardless of their race, gender, or background. In this article, we will explore the life and legacy of John Lewis, from his early activism to his impact on American politics and society.

Early Life and Activism:

John Lewis grew up in rural Alabama during a time of segregation and racial inequality. He was one of ten children in a family of sharecroppers, and he experienced firsthand the discrimination and injustice that African Americans faced in the Jim Crow South. Despite the obstacles he faced, Lewis was determined to make a difference in the world. He attended college at Fisk University in Nashville, where he became involved in the civil rights movement.

In 1960, Lewis became one of the founding members of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), a group that organized sit-ins and other nonviolent protests to challenge segregation and discrimination. Lewis quickly emerged as a leader within the organization, and he was arrested several times for his activism. In 1963, he was one of the "Big Six" leaders of the March on Washington, where he delivered a powerful speech calling for an end to racial injustice.

The Selma March and Voting Rights Act:

One of the most pivotal moments in John Lewis's life and career came in 1965, when he led a march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, to demand voting rights for African Americans. The march, which came to be known as "Bloody Sunday," was met with brutal violence from state troopers, who beat and tear-gassed the peaceful protesters. Lewis himself was badly injured in the attack.

Despite the violence, Lewis and his fellow activists persisted, and the Selma march became a turning point in the fight for voting rights. The events of Bloody Sunday galvanized public support for the cause, and President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law later that year.

Political Career:

After years of activism, John Lewis turned his attention to politics. In 1986, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Georgia's 5th congressional district, a seat he held until his death in 2020. During his time in Congress, Lewis continued to be a champion for civil rights and social justice. He was a strong advocate for voting rights, immigration reform, and gun control, among other issues.

Lewis was also a vocal critic of President Donald Trump, whom he accused of promoting racism and division. In 2019, he played a prominent role in the impeachment proceedings against Trump, delivering a powerful speech on the floor of the House of Representatives.

Legacy and Impact:

John Lewis's impact on American politics and society is difficult to overstate. He was a trailblazer and a hero to many, both within the civil rights movement and beyond. He inspired generations of activists and leaders with his courage, his commitment to justice, and his unwavering faith in the power of nonviolence.

Lewis's legacy will continue to be felt for many years to come. In the wake of his death in 2020, tributes poured in from around the world, with politicians, activists, and ordinary citizens alike honoring his life and work. His memory will continue to inspire new generations of Americans to work for a more just and equitable society.

Freemasonry:

John Lewis was an active member of the Prince Hall Masons, a Masonic organization that was founded by African American Freemasons in the late 18th century when African Americans were not allowed to join mainstream lodges. He was initiated into the H.R. Butler Lodge No. 23 in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1999, and was made a Prince Hall Mason by Grand Master Benjamin Barksdale of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge F&AM of Georgia.

In addition to his membership in the H.R. Butler Lodge No. 23, John Lewis was also a member of the Atlanta Consistory No. 24-A, Orient of Georgia (PHA). He was also a Shriner in the Prince Hall-associated Khedive Temple No. 16 and later in Mecca Temple No. 10 in the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.

John Lewis's involvement with Freemasonry demonstrates his commitment to the organization's principles of brotherhood, fellowship, and service. As a civil rights leader and politician, he dedicated his life to promoting equality and justice for all people, regardless of their race or background. His involvement with Freemasonry was a natural extension of his commitment to service, and he was widely respected and admired by his fellow Masons.

Following his passing in 2020, John Lewis was honored with a ceremony by the Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons of Georgia, a testament to the important role that his involvement with Freemasonry played in his life and legacy.