I was first introduced to John Lewis in one of Dr. F. Carl Walton’s race & politics courses while studying for my degree in political science at Lincoln University. Dr. Walton made sure we knew Mr. Lewis, as well as Elijah Cummings, Shirley Chisolm, Charles Rangel, Adam Clayton Powell, among others. But, something about John Lewis always resonated with me. Maybe it was the conviction in his glare, or his steadfastness in the face of dogs, nightsticks, and hoses. Whatever it was, he made an early impact on my grasp of the civil rights movement’s legacy.
I met Mr. Lewis last May before he spoke at Lincoln’s 2019 commencement. My good friend and colleague, Rich Lancaster, made the moment happen. We had a brief 15 minutes with him, took a few pictures, and he deliberately took time to encourage every person in the room. I can’t remember every word he said, but I do remember him telling me to “keep going.” The same words I often share with friends and family when celebrating an achievement with them.
We can’t stop, we have to keep going.
Mr. Lewis joined Dr. King’s movement at 17 and kept going until last night. I’m grateful for those 15 minutes and those two words.
Mr. Lewis, I’m going. I just hope I’m making #goodtrouble.
