Commencement Keynote Address 2014

Summary

In this inspiring commencement address, Dr. John Lewis reflects on his journey from rural Alabama to becoming a prominent figure in the civil rights movement and a member of Congress. He recalls pivotal moments such as meeting Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr., urging graduates to 'get in the way' and fight for justice, equality, and human rights. Dr. Lewis emphasizes the importance of using education to create positive change, pushing for a better, more inclusive world. His powerful message advocates for courage, unity, and the pursuit of a beloved community where all people are treated with dignity and respect.

Takeaways

• 😀 John Lewis encourages graduates to use their education for social justice, urging them to 'get in trouble' in the fight for equality.
• 😀 Lewis reflects on his own childhood in rural Alabama and the hardships his family faced, highlighting the significance of perseverance.
• 😀 He stresses the importance of 'getting in the way' of injustice, specifically through activism, to create a more just and inclusive society.
• 😀 Lewis calls on the graduates to remember the sacrifices made by civil rights figures like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr., and continue their legacy.
• 😀 The speech underscores unity and collective responsibility, reminding the graduates that we all live in the same 'house' of humanity, regardless of race, gender, or nationality.
• 😀 He urges the graduates to never give up in the face of setbacks, delays, or disappointment, and to keep their eyes on the prize of justice and equality.
• 😀 The concept of 'good trouble' is central to the speech, with Lewis emphasizing the moral obligation to challenge injustice whenever possible.
• 😀 Lewis shares a powerful metaphor of a childhood storm to convey the importance of standing firm and weathering life's challenges together.
• 😀 The speech is deeply personal, with Lewis sharing his encounters with civil rights leaders and how they inspired his lifelong commitment to activism.
• 😀 Lewis urges the graduates to create the 'Beloved Community,' a world of peace and dignity for all, where hatred and bitterness are replaced by love and respect.

Q & A

What key message does John Lewis emphasize in his speech?

John Lewis emphasizes the importance of getting into 'good trouble' for justice. He urges the graduates to use their education and tools to make the world a better place and to fight against injustice, ensuring that no one is left behind.

How does John Lewis describe his childhood and upbringing?

John Lewis grew up in rural Alabama, outside of Troy, in a family that worked as sharecroppers and farmers. He recounts how his father saved $300 to purchase 10 acres of land in 1944, which his family still owns today.

What pivotal historical events influenced John Lewis's activism?

John Lewis was inspired by key figures like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. He first heard about Rosa Parks in 1955 at age 15, and met her in 1957. These figures motivated him to engage in activism and 'get in trouble' for the cause of civil rights.

What does John Lewis mean by 'getting in the way' and 'getting in trouble'?

By 'getting in the way' and 'getting in trouble,' Lewis means engaging in activism that challenges unjust systems and policies, even if it leads to personal inconvenience or sacrifice. He encourages the graduates to fight for justice, even when it involves taking risks.

What is the significance of the Mississippi Summer Project mentioned by John Lewis?

The Mississippi Summer Project of 1964 involved over a thousand students from across the U.S., who traveled to Mississippi to help African Americans register to vote. Lewis highlights the sacrifice of three young men—James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner—who were murdered for their efforts, as a reminder of the dangers of standing up for civil rights.

How does John Lewis relate the struggle for civil rights to contemporary issues?

John Lewis warns that there are still forces in society trying to reverse the progress made in civil rights, and urges young people to remain vigilant and continue the fight for justice. He also connects this to modern issues, like the need for comprehensive immigration reform.

What personal experience does John Lewis share to illustrate his commitment to justice?

Lewis shares that he was arrested more than 40 times during the 1960s for his activism. Even after becoming a member of Congress, he was arrested five more times, including for advocating for immigration reform. His experiences show his continued commitment to fighting for justice.

What does John Lewis mean when he talks about living in 'the same house'?

When Lewis speaks of living in 'the same house,' he refers to the interconnectedness of all people, regardless of race, nationality, or identity. He emphasizes that despite our differences, we are all part of a shared humanity and must live together in peace and mutual respect.

What personal story does John Lewis share about his aunt's shotgun house?

John Lewis recalls his aunt's 'shotgun house' in rural Alabama, which had simple living conditions, including a dirt yard and a roof with holes. He shares a story of a storm that terrified his aunt, but despite the fear, they stood together, holding the house down. This symbolizes resilience and the importance of unity in times of hardship.

How does John Lewis describe the role of young people in the fight for justice?

Lewis encourages young people to be bold, courageous, and vocal in standing up for what is right. He challenges them to use their education and resources to create positive change and to ensure that justice is upheld for all people, regardless of their background.