National Protests for Racial Justice and Voting Rights on the Fifth Anniversary of John Lewis’s Passing
July 17, 2025, marked the fifth anniversary of the passing of John Lewis, the iconic civil rights leader and former congressman who spent his life fighting for racial equality, voting rights, and social justice. In his honor, a series of nationwide protests, under the banner “Good Trouble Lives On,” took place in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, mobilizing thousands of people from diverse backgrounds to take part in rallies advocating for continued progress on civil rights issues.
The protests were organized by several advocacy groups, including the American Constitution Society, Black Voters Matter, and the National Urban League, and were held to commemorate Lewis’s legacy and to demand action on racial justice and voting rights, which he championed throughout his life. The protests were part of a growing movement to address ongoing racial disparities, particularly in areas such as voting access, criminal justice reform, and economic inequality.
Legacy of Voting Rights and Civil Rights: The Need for Legislative Action
At the core of the “Good Trouble Lives On” protests was the push for legislation to protect voting rights in the U.S., an issue that Lewis fought tirelessly for, especially following the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Activists continue to demand the restoration of key provisions of the Voting Rights Act, which were weakened by the Supreme Court’s 2013 decision in Shelby County v. Holder.
Speakers at the Washington, D.C. rally highlighted how recent state-level voter suppression laws, including voter ID requirements, reduced early voting, and purging of voter rolls, disproportionately affect Black and Latino communities. They urged Congress to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, a bill introduced in his honor, to ensure that all Americans have equal access to the ballot box.
Focus on Racial Justice and Police Reform
Beyond voting rights, the protests also highlighted the need for continued work in racial justice and police reform. Despite some progress in these areas, activists stressed that systemic racism persists across various sectors, including law enforcement, education, and healthcare. The call for meaningful police reforms, including stronger accountability measures and the reallocation of funds to community-based safety programs, remained a central issue.
In cities like Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles, where large gatherings took place, local activists emphasized the importance of grassroots organizing and community-driven solutions to fight discrimination and build stronger, more equitable communities. For many, these protests were not only a tribute to Lewis’s legacy but also a call to action for a new generation of leaders to carry his fight forward.
Calls for Unity and Legislative Action
In addition to marches and rallies, the protests featured speeches and discussions on policy reforms needed to address the root causes of inequality. Among the major calls were for a national reckoning on the impact of structural racism and the creation of policies aimed at bridging the wealth gap between White Americans and people of color. Economic justice and reparative measures for communities that have been historically marginalized were also high on the agenda.
The protests concluded with a reminder that Lewis’s vision for America was one of unity, solidarity, and collective action. Organizers encouraged participants to not only honor his memory but to continue pushing for the systemic changes necessary to create a more just and equitable society for all.
Conclusion: Continuing the Fight for Justice
The “Good Trouble Lives On” protests served as a powerful reminder that John Lewis’s work is far from finished. His call for “good trouble” continues to resonate with people across the nation, inspiring future generations to advocate for justice, equity, and change. As the movement grows, it is clear that the fight for civil rights will continue until the nation fulfills its promise of equality for all its citizens.
