Henry Genga

Over the weekend, America lost one of its distinguished heroes. John Lewis spent his 80 years fighting for equality for African Americans.  He played an integral role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. He served as the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), and at 23 years old he helped organize the March on Washington.

Two years ago, Lewis famously said "Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble." Congressman Lewis was certainly an expert in causing 'good trouble'. He challenged the federal government to address the issue of segregated buses by participating in the Freedom Rides. He fought against voter suppression by participating in the march from Selma to Montgomery in 1965. As a Congressman, he organized a sit in over gun control legislation where he was joined by more than 150 of his colleagues.
 
Like many other activists from the Civil Rights Movement, Lewis sacrificed everything to fight for what he knew was right. He endured countless beatings and was arrested several times. The selfless work of Lewis and his peers made this country a better place, and the best way we can honor his legacy is by expanding on the groundwork he helped create.