On July 17, St. Louis joined over 1,500 communities across all 50 states in honoring the legacy of the late Congressman John Lewis during the fifth annual John Lewis Day of Action.

Best known as a towering figure in the civil rights movement, John Lewis was posthumously honored with the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which passed the U.S. House in 2021. Despite the League’s vigorous support, the legislation remains stalled in the Senate. Since Lewis’s death in 2020, communities across the country have marked his legacy each year with coordinated Days of Action focused on protecting the freedom to vote.

As one of just four flagship locations nationwide, St. Louis drew an estimated 300 participants to the historic Old Courthouse to reflect, rally, and recommit to Lewis's lifelong fight for voting rights and justice.

Missouri's commemoration was led by the Missouri Voter Protection Coalition, with support from a steering committee that included members of the League of Women Voters of Metro St. Louis (LWVSTL). The event featured inspiring speakers, local musicians, and dancers.

The event concluded with the presentation of "Good Trouble" certificates, honoring individuals who embody Lewis's courageand commitment to grassroots activism.

Among the honorees were LWVSTL members Sabrina Tyuse, recognized for her extensive voter registration efforts throughout the community, and Kathleen Farrell, honored for her tireless work promoting civic engagement and accountability in government.

Their dedication--and that of so many others--is a reminder that protecting democracy requires action, persistence, and the kind of "good trouble" that John Lewis called on all of us to stir up.