Soon after Rep. John Lewis’ passing, politicians and civil rights leaders publicly paid tribute to his extraordinary life, sharing memories, photos and quotes that evoked the spirit of the longtime congressman who was often referred to in Washington as “the conscience of the Congress.”
Here are some of their thoughts:
Former President Barack Obama: "I first met John when I was in law school, and I told him then that he was one of my heroes. Years later, when I was elected a U.S. Senator, I told him that I stood on his shoulders."
"Not many of us get to live to see our own legacy play out in such a meaningful, remarkable way. John Lewis did. And thanks to him, we now all have our marching orders — to keep believing in the possibility of remaking this country we love until it lives up to its full promise."
Former President George Bush: "As a young man marching for equality in Selma, Alabama, John answered brutal violence with courageous hope. And throughout his career as a civil rights leader and public servant, he worked to make our country a more perfect union. America can best honor John’s memory by continuing his journey toward liberty and justice for all."
Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton: "We have lost a giant. John Lewis gave all he had to redeem America’s unmet promise of equality and justice for all, and to create a place for us to build a more perfect union together."
"Always true to his word, his faith, and his principles, John Lewis became the conscience of the nation."
Former President Jimmy Carter: "Everything he did, he did in a spirit of love. All Americans, regardless of race or religion, owe John Lewis a debt of gratitude."
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden: "We are made in the image of God, and then there is John Lewis. He was truly one-of-a-kind, a moral compass who always knew where to point us and which direction to march. To John’s family, friends, staff, and constituents, Jill and I send you our love and prayers."
Rev. Jesse Jackson: "John Lewis is what patriotism and courage look like. He sacrificed and personifies a New Testament prophet. Good Night, I will see you in the morning. #GoodTrouble"
Former NAACP President Cornell William Brooks: "#JohnLewis ‘ death raises 1 QUESTION. It’s hard to grieve the death of anyone we admire, but HOW do we mourn the LIFE of someone every American should emulate? As a young man he risked his life in protest, as an older man he gave his life in public service. Go and do likewise."
Evangelist Franklin Graham: "Our deepest sympathy to the family and loved ones of Rep. John Lewis, former leading civil rights activist and congressman, who passed away last night."
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms: "The most humble of heroes, the most brave of giants. @repjohnlewis loved unconditionally and called upon us all to be a better version of ourselves. He was my Congressman and my best example of true servant leadership. I am grateful for his life and the joy of having known him."
Former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams: "God has welcomed @repjohnlewis home. Defender of justice. Champion of right. Our conscience, he was a griot of this modern age, one who saw its hatred but fought ever towards the light. And never once did he begrudge sharing its beauty. I loved him & will miss him."
Georgia Sen. David Perdue: "No one embodied the word ‘courage’ better than John Lewis. As a civil rights icon, John inspired millions of Americans to fight injustice and reject the status quo. Without a doubt, his wisdom and resolve made the world a better place."
California Sen. Kamala Harris: "John Lewis was an icon who fought with every ounce of his being to advance the cause of civil rights for all Americans. I’m devastated for his family, friends, staff—and all those whose lives he touched. My friend, thank you for showing the world what #GoodTrouble looks like."
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp: "Our nation will never be the same without him. There are no words to adequately express the sadness that countless Americans are feeling upon learning this news. John Lewis changed our world in profound and immeasurable ways."
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey: "Our country has lost one of its most beloved Civil Rights leaders. I join my fellow Alabamians & the nation in mourning the death of Rep. John Lewis. He dedicated his life to serving his community & advocating for others. We’ll forever remember his heroism & his enduring legacy."
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo: "John Lewis was one of the greatest men this country has ever known – a man of unimpeachable integrity, wisdom, courage, and morality. He was our conscience. And I know I speak for the entire family of New York when I say we are devastated by this loss. #GoodTrouble"
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy: "Our nation and world mourn the passing of a true American icon – Congressman John Lewis. I mourn the passing of a role model. In our sorrow, let us commit to carrying on his work, and building upon the tremendous legacy which is his lasting gift to us all."
Former Secretary of State John Kerry: "John Lewis’ unwavering sense of justice and unique, quiet determination to always act on conscience made him a walking inspiration wherever he went. It was a privilege of a lifetime to know him. There’s no better example to all who want to know what citizenship and courage means."
Former Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates: "Lewis dedicated his life to fearlessly holding our country to its promise of equal justice.We can honor his legacy by answering his call."
Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power: “No one more courageous and clear-eyed has walked among us. Thank you John Lewis.”
Source: politico.com
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