This archive report was first published on 19 July 2020.
July 19, 2020, marked a somber day in American history as civil rights icon John Lewis passed away. However, even in his passing, Lewis left behind a valuable lesson for his countrymen: the importance of courage in the face of adversity.
As Aristotle once said, 'Courage is the first virtue, the virtue that gives meaning to all other virtues.' Lewis embodied this virtue throughout his life, standing up against injustice and fighting for what was right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.
From his early days as a civil rights activist to his later years as a congressman, Lewis demonstrated unwavering courage in the face of adversity. He risked his life at the Edmund Pettus Bridge, was incarcerated for his activism, and continued to speak out against injustice, even when it was unpopular.
Today, we are faced with our own challenges, from the rise of online bullying to the erosion of democratic values. We need courage to stand up against lies, to defend the weak and powerless, and to uphold our democratic values. We need courage to risk power and privilege to do what is right, even when it is difficult.
By emulating Lewis's courage, we can pay tribute to his legacy and ensure that his work continues to inspire future generations. As he said, 'We are better than this.' Let us strive to be better, to be courageous, and to fight for what is right.
