WASHINGTON—Today, U.S. Senators Mitt Romney (R-UT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), and Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) introduced bicameral legislation honoring the life and legacy of the late Congressman John Lewis, days after what would have been his 81st birthday.
Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) will introduce companion legislation in the House.
Lewis passed away in July 2020 after courageously battling pancreatic cancer.
“Congressman John Lewis was a man of unwavering principle, unassailable character, great purpose, and heartfelt compassion. With this resolution, we honor his life and his legacy as a champion for civil rights,” said Senator Romney.
“Congressman Lewis has passed, but he lives on through his towering legacy, his powerful ideas, and his monumental accomplishments. One of the greatest figures in American history, John R. Lewis was a passionate and courageous champion of peace, justice, and human dignity whose selfless work advanced voting and civil rights for millions of Americans,” Senator Ossoff said. “The struggle for human rights continues, and Congressman Lewis taught us never to give up or give in, to keep the faith, and to keep our eyes on the prize. Poverty, violence, and racism are not necessary or inevitable. Our obligation is to carry the torch Congressman Lewis passed and keep working to build the Beloved Community in America and around the world. I feel the Congressman’s spirit profoundly every day and urge my colleagues to come together, honor his life, and be inspired by his example to speak up, speak out, and make Good Trouble,” Senator Ossoff continued.
“The legacy Congressman John Lewis leaves is a point of eternal pride for the state of Georgia. He believed in the promise and the power of the vote, and the way people can right our country’s grave mistakes by strengthening our democracy,” said Senator Warnock. “We remember and honor him, and the lessons he taught us about the sacred responsibilities we have to exercise our voices at the ballot box and strengthen voting rights across the board. In honoring him, we renew our efforts to protect our democracy and defend the sacred right to vote.”
“Congressman Lewis sacrificed so much and risked his life so people who look like me could enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted today,” said Congresswoman Williams. “He was a humanitarian, visionary leader, and a change agent whose fight for civil and voting rights has inspired people for generations. His commitment to inclusivity and equality showed his dedication to building and protecting the ‘Beloved Community’ he envisioned as he worked to ensure liberty and justice for all. On the week of what would have been Congressman Lewis’ 81st birthday, I am proud to introduce this bicameral resolution in the House honoring his life and legacy. His spirit lives on in all of us.”
Please click here to find a PDF copy of the resolution.