John Lewis, a towering figure of the Civil Rights Movement and a long-serving Congressman, dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice and equality. His words, born from decades of activism and unwavering commitment, continue to inspire generations to stand up for what is right. Following his passing on July 17, 2020, at the age of 80, his legacy as an orator and moral compass remains profoundly relevant. This article explores some of the most powerful John Lewis Quotes, reflecting his enduring wisdom and call to action.
“Get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”
“Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”
This John Lewis quote, delivered in a tweet in June 2018, encapsulates his philosophy of proactive, nonviolent resistance. “Good trouble” became a signature phrase for Lewis, urging people to challenge injustice directly and courageously. It’s a call to action that resonates especially with younger generations advocating for social change. He believed that progress requires disruption of the status quo and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.
John Lewis Quote on Good Trouble
The Urgency of the Revolution: March on Washington Speech
“I appeal to all of you to get into this great revolution that is sweeping this nation. Get in and stay in the streets of every city, every village and hamlet of this nation until true freedom comes, until the revolution of 1776 is complete.”
Spoken at the historic 1963 March on Washington, this quote reveals Lewis’s passionate belief in the ongoing struggle for freedom. He saw the Civil Rights Movement as a continuation of the American Revolution, emphasizing the need for persistent activism across the nation. These John Lewis quotes from the March on Washington highlight his early role as a powerful voice for immediate and radical change.
Freedom as an Active Pursuit
“Freedom is not a state; it is an act. It is not some enchanted garden perched high on a distant plateau where we can finally sit down and rest. Freedom is the continuous action we all must take, and each generation must do its part to create an even more fair, more just society.”
From his 2017 memoir, “Across That Bridge,” this quote offers a profound definition of freedom. Lewis argues that freedom is not a passive state to be achieved and then enjoyed, but rather an ongoing process that demands constant effort and vigilance from every generation. This John Lewis quote underscores the responsibility of each individual to actively participate in building a just society.
On Loss and Legacy: Remembering Martin Luther King Jr.
“When he was killed, I really felt I’d lost a part of myself.”
Reflecting on the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. in his 1998 memoir “Walking with the Wind,” this poignant quote reveals the deep personal impact of loss and the profound connection Lewis felt with King. It speaks to the shared sacrifices and emotional toll of the Civil Rights Movement, while also highlighting the enduring legacy of King’s dream that Lewis continued to champion throughout his life.
The Sacred Power of the Vote
“My dear friends: Your vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union.”
In a 2012 speech, Lewis eloquently articulated the significance of voting rights. He viewed the vote as a “sacred” and “powerful nonviolent tool,” emphasizing its crucial role in shaping a more just and equitable society. This John Lewis quote resonates deeply in contemporary discussions about voter access and the importance of civic participation.
Your Inner Light: A Message of Empowerment
“You are a light. You are the light. Never let anyone – any person or any force – dampen, dim or diminish your light. Study the path of others to make your way easier and more abundant.”
Another powerful quote from “Across That Bridge,” this serves as an inspirational message encouraging individuals to recognize their own potential for positive change. Lewis urges people to protect their “light” – their inner drive and passion – from negativity and to learn from the examples of those who came before them. These John Lewis quotes are often cited for their uplifting and empowering message.
The Time to Speak Up and Act
“We have been too quiet for too long. There comes a time when you have to say something. You have to make a little noise. You have to move your feet. This is the time.”
Speaking at a 2016 House sit-in following the Pulse shooting, Lewis passionately called for action on gun control. This quote emphasizes the urgency of speaking out against injustice and the need to move beyond silence and complacency. It’s a powerful reminder that moments of crisis demand courageous action.
Moral Obligation: Standing on the Right Side of History
“When you see something that is not right, not just, not fair, you have a moral obligation to say something. To do something. Our children and their children will ask us, ‘What did you do? What did you say?’ For some, this vote may be hard. But we have a mission and a mandate to be on the right side of history.”
Delivered in December 2019 during remarks on the impeachment of President Donald Trump, this quote encapsulates Lewis’s unwavering moral compass. He emphasizes the responsibility to speak out against injustice, even when it is difficult or unpopular. This John Lewis quote highlights his commitment to ethical principles and his belief in accountability to future generations.
John Lewis’s words are more than just quotes; they are a testament to a life dedicated to justice and equality. His powerful messages continue to inspire action and remind us of our collective responsibility to strive for a better world. By reflecting on these John Lewis quotes, we can draw strength and guidance for navigating the challenges of our own time and carrying forward his legacy of “good trouble.”
