Rep. John Lewis Statue Takes Place of Confederate Memorial in Georgia

On August 24, a stunning 12-foot bronze statue honoring the late civil rights activist and U.S. Representative John Lewis was unveiled in Decatur, Georgia. This tribute to Lewis, who served Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District from 1987 until his passing in 2020, stands as a significant reminder of his impactful legacy.

The statue, crafted by Jamaican sculptor Basil Watson, portrays Lewis with his hands crossed over his heart and is mounted on an impressive stone pedestal. Its installation in Decatur Square occurred on August 16, ahead of its official unveiling.

John Lewis was not just a political figure; he was a civil rights icon. He was among the first “freedom riders” during the 1960s, bravely participating in protests against racial discrimination and segregation on public buses throughout the South. His efforts extended beyond mere activism, as he served as chair of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and played a pivotal role among the “big six” leaders who organized the historic March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. famously delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech.

Lewis’s commitment to justice was tested in 1965 when Alabama state troopers, alongside local law enforcement, violently assaulted him during the Selma to Montgomery march. This merciless attack galvanized the nation and brought greater attention to the struggle for civil rights.

In recognition of his tireless work advocating for equality, former President Barack Obama awarded Lewis the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2011. This honor encapsulated Lewis’s lifelong dedication to championing civil rights and pushing for social change.

The newly unveiled statue of Lewis replaces a controversial stone obelisk that had loomed outside the DeKalb County Courthouse since 1908. This 30-foot monument was erected by the United Daughters of the Confederacy to honor Confederate soldiers and sailors, emphasizing their contributions in both peace and war. The inscriptions etched onto its four sides referenced the principles of the Confederacy, a subject that has sparked fierce debate and discussion, especially in light of the civil unrest that followed George Floyd’s death in 2020.

The removal of the obelisk and the placement of the statue serve as powerful symbols of change within the community. The statue not only honors Lewis’s legacy but also represents a broader commitment to inclusivity and social justice.

As society continues to grapple with its history and its implications, Lewis’s statue stands as a beacon of hope for future generations, reminding all of the continuous struggle for human rights and the importance of standing up against injustice.

The unveiling of the statue represents a renewed dedication to commemorating those who fought for equality, shifting the narrative from one that honored a divisive past to one that embraces the values of unity and justice.

This momentous occasion in Decatur connects the legacy of John Lewis to the city, ensuring that his contributions to civil rights will be acknowledged and celebrated for years to come.

As the community reflects on this change, it looks forward to a future inspired by Lewis’s courage and resilience. His story continues to inspire new generations to engage in the ongoing work of justice and equality.

Source: UPI