On March 5, 2025, individuals gathered in La Jolla to honor the legacy of the late Representative and civil rights leader John Lewis on the five-year anniversary of his passing. The rally not only celebrated Lewis’s contributions to civil rights but also served as a platform for protesting the current administration, drawing participants from both local and far-reaching locations.
The event began at 17:15 and lasted over 45 minutes, featuring speeches and chants that resonated through the coastal community. Organizer Susan Liberman emphasized the importance of unity beyond partisan lines. “We have to stand here, not for Democrats or Republicans, red or blue, but for every person who’s being hurt,” she stated, highlighting the rally’s inclusive message.
While the gathering paid tribute to Lewis, many attendees expressed their discontent with the government. Z Kripke, an 87-year-old former pediatrician and activist, remarked on the significance of ongoing protests. “I’m accumulating rallies. It has nothing to do with John Lewis,” she said, indicating her broader commitment to activism. Kripke noted the importance of voicing concerns in a community where opinions vary widely.
Participants included visitors from outside La Jolla, such as Brent Ferguson, who joined the rally while visiting family from the East Coast. He carried a copy of “On Tyranny” by Timothy Snyder, remarking, “This is celebrating the life and the legacy of John Lewis on the anniversary of his death.” Ferguson highlighted that protests addressing significant issues occur regularly, reinforcing the need for civic engagement.
Lewis served in the House of Representatives for 33 years, from 1987 until his death at the age of 80 in 2020. He was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, known for his leadership with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and his role among the “Big Six” activists, including the renowned Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. Lewis popularized the term “good trouble,” advocating for peaceful protests to draw attention to injustices.
The rally featured various signs, many quoting Lewis’s impactful words, such as “If not us, then who? If not now, then when?” Attendees like Nancy Vincent and Cary Shillington proudly displayed these sentiments, aiming to embody the spirit of activism Lewis championed.
Crowd reactions included supportive honks from passing vehicles, and chants erupted sporadically, with attendees proclaiming, “Show me what democracy looks like!” to which the crowd responded, “This is what democracy looks like!” This vibrant display of civic pride underscored the rally’s dual purpose of honoring Lewis and advocating for change.
The La Jolla rally was one of several events held throughout San Diego on that day, with similar gatherings occurring across the nation, all dedicated to remembering Lewis and promoting civic action. As communities reflect on Lewis’s legacy, the call for continued activism remains strong, inspiring individuals to engage in the democratic process.
