Rep. John Lewis Named One Of World’s Most Influential People
Civil rights activist and Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga. is introduced before speaking at the unveiling of a U.S. Postal Service stamp commemorating the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, Friday, Aug. 23, 213, at the Newseum in Washington. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak)
Charles Dharapak / Associated Press
The work and achievements of civil rights leader and longtime Congressman John Lewis of Georgia have been recognized by Time magazine. He made its list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
The 2017 list, released Thursday, recognizes artists, activists, athletes, leaders and executives who have worked to change and influence the world.
In his Time tribute to U.S. Rep. Lewis, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey wrote: “With truly death-defying sacrifices and an almost irrational, love-fueled persistence in the cause of our country, John Lewis has spent his life dedicated to the freedoms, liberties and justice we enjoy.”
Others on the Time list include Pope Francis, NBA star LeBron James, Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis and President Donald Trump. Trump and Lewis exchanged words not long ago. Lewis described Trump as an “illegitimate president” while Trump described Lewis’ metro Atlanta district as “falling apart” and “crime infested.” Politicians and Atlanta residents came to the Georgia Democrat’s defense.
Lewis helped organize the 1963 March on Washington, worked alongside civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and was an influential figure in the civil rights movement, fighting for equal rights and an end to segregation.
On being named to the Time list, Lewis said on Twitter, “I am deeply honored and very grateful for this recognition.”
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