Congressman John Lewis Laid to Rest

Today in Atlanta, Congressman John Lewis, a tireless civil rights advocate, was laid to rest following a service at Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Congressman John Lewis passed away on July 17, 2020 after a six-month battle with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. He also passed away on the same say as his friend and fellow activist, C.T. Vivian.

John Lewis was a tireless advocate for civil rights, fighting for equality and justice for all, no matter the color of one’s skin. He worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to organize the March from Selma, Alabama to Washington, D.C. Lewis was the youngest speaker at the event, and was the last surviving speaker. He served in Congress for over 30 years, as Representative of Georgia‘s 5th Congressional District.

On July 26th, a horse-drawn caisson bearing Congressman Lewis’ casket traveled across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. This is the same bridge Lewis crossed over 50 years ago as part of the Freedom Riots.

Announced by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Congressman Lewis’ casket laid in state on July 27th and 28th. Lewis is the first African-American lawmaker to receive this honor.

On July 28th, Lewis’ casket traveled to Atlanta, GA, where he laid in state in the Georgia State Capitol the next day.

Earlier today, a Celebration of Life was held for Congressman John Lewis at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. Many distinguished guests were in attendance, including many members of Congress and three former Presidents. Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama delivered eulogies commemorating the life of Congressman Lewis.

Congressman John Lewis was interned after the memorial service at City View Cemetery in Atlanta.