Through my eyes: Honoring the work and words of John Lewis and the Rev. C. T. Vivian
Aug. 21 is National Senior Citizens Day, a day to recognize and show appreciation for the value and contribution of elderly people to home, family and society. On July 17, 2020, two elderly civil rights icons passed away: Congressman John Lewis, who was 80, and the Rev. C. T. Vivian, who was 95.
On this National Senior Citizens Day 2020, I am profoundly proud to show appreciation for the value and contribution these men made toward transforming the American family into a more just society.
I invite you to look through my eyes to glimpse a portion of their value in the movie “Selma” and the short essay Lewis penned shortly before his death.
Human dignity
“While my time here has now come to an end, I want you to know that in the last days and hours of my life you inspired me. You filled me with hope about the next chapter of the great American story when you used your power to make a difference in our society. … Around the country and the world you set aside race, class, age, language and nationality to demand respect for human dignity.” — John Lewis
What have you set aside to demand respect for human dignity?
Liberation
“Emmett Till was my George Floyd. He was my Rayshard Brooks, Sandra Bland and Breonna Taylor. He was 14 when he was killed, and I was only 15 years old at the time. … In those days, fear constrained us like an imaginary prison, and troubling thoughts of potential brutality committed for no understandable reason were the bars.” — John Lewis
In these days, may faith and thoughts of perfect love liberate us to pursue peace and justice for all.
Stand Up. Speak Up. Speak Out.
“Like so many young people today, I was searching for a way out, or some might say a way in, and then I heard the voice of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on an old radio. He said we are all complicit when we tolerate injustice. … He said each of us has a moral obligation to stand up, speak up and speak out. When you see something that is not right, you must say something. You must do something.” — John Lewis
In June, several people spoke out against comments made by a seated Lacey City Council member. I wonder if he will be re-elected?
Who’s voice is inspiring you to do (not do) what you do (don’t do)?
Good trouble
“Ordinary people with extraordinary vision can redeem the soul of America by getting in what I call good trouble, necessary trouble. Voting and participating in the democratic process are key.” — John Lewis
March. Protest. Resist until just laws are passed: just a few things these seniors did in Selma to exercise their right to vote.
What will you do to keep that right?
The Olympia City Council plans to seat a commission made up of a diverse set of residents tasked with advising city leadership on how to best combat systemic injustices perpetuated by local government.
Why task the commission to advise instead of seating them on the council to govern?
Is this the time to call for a nationwide search for the next Olympia Police Chief, a statement for someone with a vision for an anti-racist police culture and not a statement against the interim chief, who, of course, is welcome to apply?
“So, I say to you, walk with the wind, brothers and sisters, and let the spirit of peace and the power of everlasting love be your guide.” — John Lewis (1940-2020)
Dr. Karen A. Johnson (Dr. J) (she/her/hers) is a servant leader, and a member of The Olympian’s 2020 Board of Contributors. She may be reached at drjcolumn@gmail.com.
This story was originally published August 21, 2020 at 5:45 AM.