Pittsburgh advocates honor late Congressman John Lewis by pushing for change

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh community members came together right at Freedom Corner to honor Rep. John Lewis.

They said although he’s no longer with us, they will continue to preserve his memory and affect change.

“I’m sorry, The honorable John Lewis was an advocate. Boots on the ground. He believed with Dr. King and others Young,” explained Pittsburgh Higher Ground Ministry leader Yvonne Rainey.

Celebrating a civil rights icon. The Black Political Empowerment Project and community leaders stood in solidarity with candles in hand for the Good Trouble Vigil for Democracy.

They took time to remember and reflect on the life of the late Lewis.

Today marks one year since Lewis passed away shortly after announcing his battle with advanced pancreatic cancer.

>>>RELATED: Local leaders, organizations mourn the death of US Rep. John Lewis

“The honorable John Lewis made it for me to vote. And I would continue to say, ‘Thank you,’” Rainey said.

Community leaders are working to preserve his memory, carry his strength and emulate his actions.

They are urging Congress to honor his legacy by protecting the sacred right to vote and also rebuilding the state of democracy.

They said there have been a number of challenges, but it can be done successfully if everyone works as one united front for the greater good.

“Our vote, our voice, our power. We need to understand what’s going on with our democracy. Speak up, stand up.”

“I think he would be proud that he inspired people. He’s one of my heroes, to be honest. That he inspired people across this nation to remember his name. Remember what he stood for and to fight what he stood for,” The Black Political Empowerment Project member Tim Stevens said.

>>>RELATED: Biden, Harris: Protect voting rights to honor John Lewis

BPEP and community leaders said they will continue to write to local and state lawmakers, urging them to fight for voter rights.

Lewis would’ve been 81 today.

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