Inspirational Words from Civil Rights Icon and U.S. Congressman John Lewis at 2013 JTS Commencement

In 2013, the JTS community was blessed to hear from John Lewis during our commencement ceremony. The civil rights icon and congressman received an honorary degree and provided a poignant commencement address. He shared stories from his life and meaningful advice with a room full of graduates. His passionate speech entitled, “Get in Trouble,” encouraged students to stand up for what is fair and just in this world. His words, “We’re one people, we’re one family, we’re one house. Not just an American house, but a world house, and all of us must play our role and play our part in putting an end to bigotry and anti-Semitism and create a world at peace with itself,” inspired and empowered all that heard them.

Baruch Dayan Ha Emet. May his memory be a blessing for us all.

Watch his commencement address below.