July 23, 2020

A Profound, Painful Loss

Few people know just how much Rep. John Lewis did to address dating and domestic violence and stop violence against children and youth – but here at FUTURES, we will never forget. 

We were blessed to work closely with Rep. Lewis over the years as we advanced legislation and worked to change social and cultural norms to make violence unacceptable. Just this February, he was host for our congressional briefing on preventing teen dating violence and sexual assault and once again wrote the congressional resolution recognizing February as Teen Dating Violence Prevention and Awareness Month. He fought hard, and successfully, to include the SMART (Saving Money and Reducing Tragedy) Prevention program in the Violence Against Women Act.

He was a deeply moral person who lived his life with courage, grace, and an unwavering commitment to fighting racism and defending the civil and human rights of every person. He shared our dedication to preventing and ending violence against women and children and helping heal those traumatized by violence. He never let go of hope and he shared our vision for a better, safer and more just world.
 
In a life of so much accomplishment, what still stands out to us is the passion and unwavering commitment Rep. Lewis brought to lifting and inspiring young people. FUTURES ran a national initiative that focused on helping middle schoolers learn how to build healthy relationships and prevent violence. He was scheduled to speak to the students but was called away for a vote, which caused him to miss the meeting. But he promised to meet with them that night and did, giving the awe-struck youth his full attention and conveying his belief in them in powerful ways. He always found time for those in need and always had a kind word to offer, but for children he did even more.

John Lewis brought wisdom and warmth to every challenge. He was an ally and a true, trusted, reliable friend. Our movement will not be the same without his friendship, guidance, and support. His passing is a profound and painful loss, but his memory will inspire us, always.

This email was sent by: Futures Without Violence
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San Francisco, CA 94129-1718


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