A bronze statue of the late civil rights leader and congressman, John Lewis, has been installed in Decatur, Georgia, replacing a Confederate monument that stood for over a century before being taken down in 2020. The installation of the statue was overseen by sculptor Basil Watson, who expressed excitement for the city and what the statue represents. John Lewis was known for his prominent role in the Civil Rights Movement and encouraged others to engage in “good trouble” for causes he believed in. Protesters in DeKalb County had called for the removal of the Confederate monument, invoking Lewis’s message of activism and change.
The Confederate monument in Decatur, Georgia, was removed in 2020 amid protests and chants of “Just drop it!” from onlookers. The monument had been erected by the United Daughters of the Confederacy in 1908 and had been a source of controversy for many years. Groups like the Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights and Hate Free Decatur had been advocating for its removal since the deadly white nationalist rally in Charlottesville in 2017. The monument became a flashpoint for protests over police brutality and racial injustice following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
The city of Decatur requested a Georgia judge to order the removal of the Confederate monument, citing concerns about public safety due to vandalism and graffiti. The removal of the monument was seen as a significant step towards addressing the legacy of racism and injustice in the community. The statue of John Lewis, which now stands in place of the Confederate monument, is a powerful symbol of progress and change. The statue will officially be unveiled on August 24, honoring the legacy of John Lewis and his commitment to social justice and equality.
The installation of the statue of John Lewis in Decatur represents a powerful shift in the narrative surrounding civil rights and racial equality. By replacing a Confederate monument with a tribute to a prominent civil rights leader, the community is sending a clear message about the values they uphold. John Lewis’s message of “good trouble” and his dedication to fighting injustice resonate strongly in the current social and political climate. The unveiling of the statue on August 24 will be a momentous occasion, celebrating the impact and legacy of John Lewis in the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
The statue of John Lewis serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for civil rights and social justice in America. As a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, Lewis’s legacy continues to inspire activists and advocates for change. The installation of his statue in place of a Confederate monument reflects a changing tide in public discourse around monuments and symbols of the past. It is a step towards acknowledging and addressing the deep-rooted issues of racism and inequality that persist in society. The unveiling of the statue will be a moment of reflection and celebration, honoring the life and contributions of John Lewis in the ongoing quest for a more just and equitable society.
In conclusion, the installation of the statue of John Lewis in Decatur marks a significant moment in the city’s history and a powerful statement about the values and beliefs of the community. By honoring Lewis’s legacy and replacing a Confederate monument, the community is taking a stand against racism and injustice. The unveiling of the statue on August 24 will be a moment of tribute and celebration, recognizing the impact and influence of John Lewis in the fight for civil rights. This symbolic gesture is a step towards healing and understanding, as the community continues to strive for equality and justice for all.
