John Lewis
Obama Presidential Center Honoree
Space Name: John Lewis Plaza | Campus Grounds
Congressman John Lewis was an activist and lawmaker from Georgia who dedicated his life to advancing democracy and equal representation for all. A major leader in the Civil Rights Movement, his story helped inspire a young Barack Obama to become a community organizer. Lewis’s life stands as a testament to the power of ordinary people to come together and remake this country.
With gratitude to Jeff Bezos
Legacy on Campus
John Lewis Plaza
The Plaza is a lively outdoor space welcoming visitors to the Center. The Plaza–which serves as an entry point for the Forum, Museum, and Library buildings–is a dynamic hub built to foster the spirit of community that was central to the legacy of Congressman Lewis.
You Are America
The Museum’s façade features a quote from President Obama’s speech “You Are America,” honoring the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches. The marches stand as pivotal events in American history.
Explore Congressman Lewis’ Story
Meet More Honorees
Through the honoree naming initiative at the Obama Presidential Center, we are partnering with our donors to celebrate a part of the history in which the Obama story is so deeply rooted by associating a named space with a hero, moment, or person "on whose shoulders we stand"—an honoree who made the Obamas’ story possible.
Meet More Honorees