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WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) delivered remarks on the House floor in memory of her late colleague and friend, Congressman John Lewis. The full text of Trahan’s remarks as delivered is embedded below. Video of her statement can be viewed by clicking HERE or the image below.

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Congresswoman Lori Trahan

Remarks As Delivered

July 22, 2020

Walking the halls of the United States Capitol this week has felt different – like a piece of what makes this institution great is missing – because he is. It has been a somber reminder that this body and our country will never be the same without our guiding light, our moral compass – Congressman John Lewis.

I have never known someone to be more devoted to our nation than John Lewis.  

He demonstrated that devotion by setting standards high and requiring her continuous improvement; calling out when our policies or practices didn't live up to the words written in our Constitution; and never giving up on the pursuit of freedom and equality for everyone in our country. 

He committed his life to the fight for civil rights, and along the way, he persuaded a nation through steadfast, peaceful protest. 

Yes, John Lewis is a hero. He is also the closest example I will likely ever know of a saint. But more than that, he was a friend.

To those of us who are new to the Congress, John Lewis welcomed us; made time for each of us; got to know us, and somehow made you feel like the only person in his presence. He wanted you to know that he truly heard your words and that they mattered.

Part of what makes this job the honor of a lifetime is serving alongside giants like Congressman Lewis. 

Like so many in this Chamber, I stood in absolute awe of him. He embodied decency, perseverance, justice, courage, and compassion – traits that he used to great effect in changing hearts and minds by meeting hate with love and cruelty with kindness. 

I will forever remember and cherish the opportunity to join John Lewis in Selma, Alabama this past March with my husband, my mom and two daughters. 

The time he spent with Grace and Caroline, describing to them what “good trouble” was; walking across the Edmund Pettus Bridge one last time, and reminding us what happened there 55 years ago.

He said, “On this bridge some of us gave a little blood to redeem the soul of America. Our country is a better country; we are a better people. But we still have a distance to travel, to go before we get there.”

Thank you, John, for never giving up, for never giving in, for keeping the faith, and for always keeping your eyes on the prize. 

We know the work we have left to do. And you gave us the tools and the courage to continue your legacy. 

Rest in peace Congressman Lewis. 

I yield back. 

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