Bishop Statement on John Lewis Receiving the Medal of Freedom

Washington, DC – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-2) released the following statement today after President Barack Obama awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Rep. John Lewis (GA-5). Rep. Lewis was among 15 individuals to receive the highest civilian honor in the United States at the White House today for “an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors."

“The Medal of Freedom is our nation’s highest civilian honor, going only to those individuals who have made our country and our world a better place. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this high distinction than my good friend Congressman Lewis, and I congratulate him for receiving this award.

“As a leader in the civil rights movement, his courage and determination to stand up for justice and equality in the face of untold violence and bigotry made our country a more perfect union. The conscience of Congress, John Lewis has represented the best of America throughout his life, and it is an honor to have known him for more than 40 years and serve alongside him in Congress. I hope that generations to come will not forget his tremendous service to our country.”

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