John Lewis: More Than A Congressman

John Lewis has served the public by defending civil and human rights for everyone, from his days as a student organizer with Student Nonviolence Coordinating Committee to the present as the Representative for Georgia’s 5th District.

Congressman Lewis was a part of the Freedom Rides, the March on Washington, and Freedom Summer. His support for voting rights in the March from Selma to Montgomery March 7, 1965, led to an attack by state troopers fracturing his skull. The attacks meant to stop Lewis in his tracks could not hold him down, creating a legacy of service to others in the name of equal rights. 

As the hometown hero of Georgia’s 5th District, Congressman Lewis has been called the “moral conscience of the House of Representatives.” His legacy includes experience as SNCC’s chairman from 1963—1966 as well as serving on Atlanta’s City Council from 1981—1986. Through the American Civil Rights Movement, the philosophy of nonviolence, & contemporary issues, Congressman Lewis is a living testament to how one may “live the legacy.”  

Learn more about Congressman John Lewis and other civil rights icons at The Center. Plan your visit today and experience how we’re more than a museum.