2020 is a pivotal year that has tremendous historical significance in terms of national and local elections. Reverend Dr. Joseph E. Lowery’s powerful voice pushes us as we recall his words, “we labored in vain if you don’t vote.” The battle for the right to vote was hard fought and led by non-violent protests where human beings were beaten and lost their lives in the quest for equality. We honor the incredible work of the late Rev. Lowery, Representative John Lewis and Rev. C.T. Vivian who all passed away in 2020. We recognize that 2020 is also the Centennial anniversary of womens’ suffrage. We are honoring their hard fought battles through a specific virtual voter registration drive and several special events focused on the history, legacy and contemporary implications of voter suppression activities. Our very special tribute will also commemorate the birthdays of the late Rev. Joseph E. Lowery and Fannie Lou Hamer. This week's events are sponsored in part by a generous donation of Craig Newmark Philanthropies.

All events are presented in collaboration with the Joseph and Evelyn Lowery Institute on Justice and Human Rights.