Ep 1. Celebrating John Lewis: Civil Rights Icon

Celebrating John Lewis: Civil Rights Icon is the first episode of season two of the television news program, ABC News Live. This episode honors the life and legacy of the late John Lewis, a civil rights icon and longtime member of Congress who passed away in July 2020.

The episode is hosted by ABC News Live anchor Linsey Davis, who is joined by a panel of guests that includes several of Lewis' former colleagues and friends. They discuss Lewis' life story and his many contributions to the civil rights movement, as well as his ongoing fight for voting rights and social justice.

The episode begins by examining Lewis' early life, growing up in rural Alabama and witnessing firsthand the injustices and violence of racism. The panel discusses how Lewis' experiences as a young man led him to become involved in the civil rights movement, and how he quickly rose to become one of its most prominent leaders.

The panel also examines Lewis' pivotal role in the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which was passed in the wake of the Selma to Montgomery march that Lewis helped organize. They discuss how Lewis' courage and determination helped to push the act through Congress, despite strong opposition from many lawmakers.

Throughout the episode, the panel also reflects on Lewis' character and his personal values, including his deep faith, his commitment to nonviolence, and his unwavering dedication to justice. They also discuss how Lewis' legacy continues to inspire generations of activists and how his work remains essential for advancing civil rights in the United States and around the world.

The episode includes interviews with several of Lewis' colleagues and friends, including Ambassador Andrew Young, Reverend Al Sharpton, and former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams. They share their personal memories of working with Lewis and describe how his life and work have influenced their own activism and advocacy.

The episode concludes with a tribute to Lewis, including footage of his funeral and memorial services, as well as reflections from a wide range of people, including former President Barack Obama and civil rights activist Angela Davis. The panel discusses how Lewis' legacy will continue to shape the fight for civil rights and social justice for years to come.

Overall, Celebrating John Lewis: Civil Rights Icon is a moving tribute to one of the most important figures in American history. The episode provides a deep and nuanced look at Lewis' life and work, as well as his lasting impact on the civil rights movement and the nation as a whole. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history and ongoing struggle for social justice in the United States.