Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., will be the keynote speaker for The University of Mississippi School of Law’s commencement ceremony May 10.
Lewis was a major player in the civil rights movement. He was an important leader in the March on Washington in 1963 and holds many positions in the U.S. House of Representatives, including senior chief deputy whip for the Democratic Party. He has been awarded numerous honors, including a Presidential Medal of Freedom granted by President Obama.
Law school Dean Richard Gershon spoke of Lewis’ encouraging presence.
“The congressman is an inspiring speaker,” Gershon said. “He will remind the graduates that there is more to life than making money. He was a hero of the civil rights movement, and he made many personal sacrifices to make the country a better place for all of us.”
The only living “Big Six” leader of the civil rights movement, Lewis is especially known for his endeavors to safeguard and establish human rights and civil freedoms. He is also a vital member of the House Ways and Means Committee and its subcommittees.
“He does not have a law degree, but he has had an impact on our laws as a member of Congress,” Gershon said. “As a student at Fisk University, John Lewis organized sit-in demonstrations at segregated lunch counters in Nashville, Tennessee. He has been awarded over 50 honorary degrees from prestigious colleges and universities throughout the United States.”
Marcus Williams, student body president of the law school, commented on why Lewis will be especially influential as the graduation speaker.
“He was so important in the civil rights movement, which was made up of young people all participating,” Williams said. “Since we are all graduating and are young, we can appreciate someone doing something at such a young age of especially significant value.”
Accrding to Gershon, Lewis spoke at the dedication of the James Meredith statue on campus, so his return is especially timely.
“Recent events make his return to Ole Miss even more compelling,” Gershon said. “He is a great speaker, and I know his remarks will be memorable.”
The commencement ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. in the Grove and will honor 152 graduates. Gershon, Williams and Mississippi Bar President Guy Mitchell will also speak at the ceremony.
— Mary Virginia Portera
mvporter@go.olemiss.edu
