“I got down on my knees and said, ‘Thank you, Lord’ — not because I was alive, but because I had done what I should do, and I’d done it well. Even when I got knocked down, I stood back up. I’d stood up to the powers that be, and I did it nonviolently.”
— C.T. Vivian
“Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”
— John Lewis
A Message from Bishop Rob Wright
We call what John Lewis and C.T. Vivian did civil rights work but that is too small a title. The Civil Rights movement was a word of God movement. Both of these bold and gentle men believed with their whole souls that all they did was about the worship of God and the fulfillment of the Great Commandment. Each believed they were following Jesus when they worked to include all in the American promise. Each inspired countless men and women for sixty years with their moral clarity and selflessness. We are a better nation and church for their faith and efforts. Both men now deserve their eternal rest and every praise we could heap on them.
Continuing Their Legacy
Show Your Support
Fight against racial injustice by supporting organizations like Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing.
Dismantling Racism Literature
This literature helps bring about understanding, which in turn raises awareness, making action more effective.
Recommended Documentaries
These films look at the history of racism in America, racial inequality, and the civil rights movement.
Share on Social
Share your memories of these heroes, favorite quotes, and stories of inspiration with us on social media. Tag us so we can share your post with the diocese.
Facebook: @epsicopalatl | Twitter: @episcopalatlanta | Instagram: @episcopalatl