Congressman John Lewis

Selma 2020 & Interviewing John Lewis • photos by Clay Walker

“You are a light. You are the light. Never let anyone—any person or any force—dampen, dim or diminish your light. Study the path of others to make your way easier and more abundant. Lean toward the whispers of your own heart, discover the universal truth, and follow its dictates. […] Release the need to hate, to harbor division, and the enticement of revenge. Release all bitterness. Hold only love, only peace in your heart, knowing that the battle of good to overcome evil is already won. Choose confrontation wisely, but when it is your time don’t be afraid to stand up, speak up, and speak out against injustice. And if you follow your truth down the road to peace and the affirmation of love, if you shine like a beacon for all to see, then the poetry of all the great dreamers and philosophers is yours to manifest in a nation, a world community, and a Beloved Community that is finally at peace with itself.” 

― John Lewis, Across That Bridge: A Vision for Change and the Future of America

It was a great honor when I was asked to videotape an interview with John Lewis for the prologue of the Center for Puppetry Arts’ stage production of “Ruth and The Green Book.” Years later, I was thrilled when I moved into a district in which I could select his name on my voting ballot as well. My wife & I were fortunate to march in Selma earlier this year with Mr. Lewis just on the other side of the Edmund Pettus Bridge ahead of us!

Please take a moment to watch the amazing new film on him John Lewis: Good Trouble.

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