August 25th 2024.
A new statue honoring the late U.S. Congressman John Lewis was unveiled in Decatur, a suburb of Atlanta, on August 24th. This special statue now stands in place of a former Confederate monument that previously occupied the spot. According to reports from CNN, the statue was created by the talented Jamaican sculptor Basil Watson and has been erected in Decatur Square. This bustling square, located in front of the Historic Decatur Courthouse, is a popular spot for residents to gather, featuring a promenade of charming shops and delicious restaurants. With the addition of the 12-foot statue of John Lewis, visitors will now be greeted with his iconic pose, hands placed over his heart. This gesture was often used by Lewis and symbolizes his deep love and compassion for others.
Throughout his lifetime, John Lewis was a fierce activist and a champion for racial equality and civil rights. As a Freedom Rider, he bravely rode segregated buses throughout the South in the 1960s to protest racial discrimination. He was also the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and played a major role in organizing the historic March on Washington. Unfortunately, Lewis also experienced his own instance of police brutality in 1965 while leading a civil rights march in Selma.
For over three decades, John Lewis served as the U.S. representative for Georgia's 5th district, which includes Decatur. Even in his later years, he remained dedicated to promoting racial justice across the nation. In 2011, Former President Barack Obama honored him with the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of his lifetime of service. Lewis continued to serve in Congress until his passing in 2020, leaving behind a powerful and inspiring legacy.
John Lewis' impact and legacy are deeply ingrained in the state of Georgia and the entire country. In the wake of his passing, a joint task force in the area worked to create a fitting tribute for this esteemed congressional leader. Their plans were finally realized in 2021 with the approval of the Lewis Memorial. The new statue now stands in the place of a 30-foot Confederate obelisk that was erected in 1908 by the United Daughters of the Confederacy. The base of the monument featured ideals of the confederacy, making its removal in 2020 during the height of the Black Lives Matter protests even more meaningful.
The Lewis Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of equality and justice, while also honoring Lewis' unwavering dedication to uplifting the Black community. This new addition to Decatur Square serves as a reminder of the important work that John Lewis accomplished during his lifetime and continues to inspire future generations.
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