The American Jewish Congress mourns the loss of Representative John Lewis, an icon of the civil rights movement and a modern-day American hero.
John Lewis committed his life to civil rights activism and the struggle for equality. One of the original Freedom Riders and the youngest member of the Big Six civil rights leaders, John Lewis was always on the front line fighting for freedom.
Besides being a legendary activist for racial justice, John Lewis was also a dedicated civil servant. Rep. Lewis served in the U.S. Congress for more than three decades and as a legislator continued to contribute for a better America. Through his life and work, Rep. Lewis transformed our nation.
John Lewis not only believed in a better world, but he also fought ceaselessly to make progress happen. His revolutionary vision, legacy, and selfless contribution will continue to inspire many generations to come.
(Photo: Civil rights leaders meeting with President John F. Kennedy in the White House following the civil rights march on Washington D.C in 1963. The group includes John Lewis, then-Chairman of Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, as well as American Jewish Congress President Rabbi Joachim Prinz)