Cathedral Remembers Congressman John Lewis

7/20/2020

Our nation lost an icon of leadership for equity and justice with the passing of Congressman John Lewis last week. His commitment to protecting human rights and securing civil liberties through peaceful activism helped to transform politics across the South and the nation. He once said, “Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime,” and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

The Cathedral School was fortunate to have had a personal experience with Congressman Lewis in 2015 when he was chosen as our Absalom Jones Benefit Honoree. Prior to the Benefit, Cathedral students participated in an essay contest, and the winners traveled to Washington, D.C. to present letters to Congressman Lewis and to talk with him about his experiences and life’s work. This once-in-a-lifetime experience was captured here.

One of those students, Dalyn Booker ‘19, reflected on her experience: “When I met Congressman Lewis as a fourth grader, I didn’t realize the impact that experience would have on me. Now, five years later, I am inspired by Congressman Lewis to be an active part of the movement for Black people and for other causes of equity and justice as well.”

Although Congressman Lewis was not able to attend the 2015 Benefit in person, he made this video speaking directly to our school community and accepting the award. His charge to us then to “never ever give up or give in” and to “continue to work…to redeem the soul of America” and “find a way to get in the way” feels even more powerful now.

Cathedral, like all institutions, is on its own journey, and school leadership remains committed to generating, communicating, and implementing a comprehensive anti-racist action plan for the continued growth and support of our community. As we remember and honor the inspirational life of John Lewis, we look forward to sharing the school’s plans to maintain and strengthen its commitment to equity, inclusion, and justice at The Cathedral School.

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