News
Postal Service Commemorates Congressman John Lewis With New Forever Stamp
Jun
The United States Postal Service is set to issue a new Forever Stamp to pay tribute to Congressman John Lewis, who had a remarkable life and enduring legacy (1940-2020), a pivotal figure during the Civil Rights Movement’s most critical junctures.
The unveiling of the John Lewis Forever stamp will take place on its first day of issue and is open to the public, signifying the significance of this commemorative event. The news surrounding this stamp release is disseminated with the hashtag #JohnLewisStamp.
Honoring John Lewis
The distinguished Ronald A. Stroman, Governor of the United States Postal Service, will preside over the ceremony.
Stamp Issuance Details Date: Friday, July 21, 2023 Time: 12:00 PM EDT
Location
Morehouse College Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel 830 Westview Drive SW Atlanta, GA 30314
Forever Stamp Design
The stamp design prominently features a photograph of John Lewis captured by Marco Grob during an assignment for Time magazine on August 26, 2013. Lewis’s name elegantly shows at the bottom of the stamp. The words “USA” and “Forever” grace the stamp in the top left corner. Derry Noyes, a renowned art director at the USPS, expertly crafted the stamp’s artistic direction.
John Lewis’s Contributions
Over more than 30 years in Congress, John Lewis dedicated himself to championing equality and justice for all Americans. With unwavering commitment, he defended and built upon the pivotal civil rights advancements achieved in the 1960s.
Lewis staunchly advocated for nonviolent protests and was hailed as a “saint” by Time magazine and “the conscience of the Congress” by his esteemed colleagues. He received over 50 honorary degrees for his tireless efforts.
Achievements in Activities
Lewis played a prominent role in numerous historical activities. He emerged as a prominent figure in the Nashville Student Movement, served as the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee chairman, and participated as an original Freedom Rider.
Additionally, Lewis delivered a stirring speech during the 1963 March on Washington. Throughout his illustrious career, he served as the executive director of the Voter Education Project, held the position of associate director of ACTION, and was an esteemed member of the Atlanta City Council.
Moreover, Lewis’s literary works, including the influential “March” comic book series and his inspiring autobiography, “Walking With the Wind,” became best-sellers.
Presidential Recognition
Upon his election to represent Georgia in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986, Lewis garnered crucial support that led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act 1991. He sponsored the legislation establishing the historic Selma-to-Montgomery National Historic Trail, spanning 54 miles.
Moreover, he spent more than a decade working to create the National Museum of African American History and Culture on Washington, D.C.’s National Mall.
President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his outstanding contributions.
A Legacy of Courage
Throughout his lifetime, John Lewis demonstrated unwavering resolve in pursuing what he termed “good trouble,” even in the face of hatred and violence. His indelible mark on history will continue to inspire generations to come.
