Lori Trahan: “Walking the halls of the United States Capitol this week has felt different, like a piece of what makes this institution…”

“Walking the halls of the United States Capitol this week has felt different, like a piece of what makes this institution great is missing, because he is. It has been a somber reminder that this body and our country will never be the same without our guiding light, our moral compass, Congressman John Lewis. I have never known someone to be more devoted to our Nation than John Lewis. He demonstrated that devotion by setting standards high and requiring her continuous improvement; calling out when our policies or practices didn't live up to the words written in our Constitution; and never giving up on the pursuit of freedom and equality for everyone in our country. He committed his life to the fight for civil rights and, along the way, he persuaded a Nation, through steadfast, peaceful protests. Yes, John Lewis is a hero. He is also the closest example I will likely ever know of a saint. But more than that, he was a friend. To those of us who are new to Congress, John Lewis welcomed us. He made time for each of us; got to know us and, somehow, made you feel like the only person in his presence. He wanted you to know that he truly heard your words and that they mattered. Part of what makes this job the honor of a lifetime is serving alongside giants like Congressman Lewis. Like so many in this Chamber, I stood in absolute awe of him.…”