Late LA Civil Rights Leader Deserves Presidential Medal of Freedom, U.S. Reps Say

LOS ANGELES, CA — A group of two dozen Congress members are calling on President Joe Biden to posthumously award the Rev. James Lawson, a prominent Southland faith and civil rights leader, with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Rep. Syndey Kamlager-Dove, D-Los Angeles, along with 22 other legislators, sent a letter to Biden Thursday with the request. The Medal of Freedom is "the nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors," according to the White House.

Lawson, who died June 9 at 95, led Civil Rights Movement-era actions in Nashville and Memphis. Among them was the Nashville sit-ins challenging segregation in stores, which prompted the desegregation of some public spaces. He also mentored other leaders in the cause, including the late U.S. Rep. John Lewis.

"Reverend Lawson's courage and moral clarity have inspired generations of activists and advocates. His teachings on nonviolent resistance not only shaped the course of the civil rights movement but also influenced movements for social change around the world," the letter reads.

Then a student at Vanderbilt University's Divinity School, Lawson was expelled for his involvement in Civil Rights causes in 1960, sparking national debate. The university apologized for its treatment of Lawson in 2006 and he went on to teach at the school for several years.

Beginning in the 1970s, Lawson served as pastor at West Adams' Holman United Methodist Church. During his 25 year tenure, he advocated for a variety of social and political causes.

"Reverend Lawson's contributions to the advancement of civil rights and human dignity are immeasurable, and it is only fitting that his remarkable legacy be honored with the highest civilian honor bestowed by our nation, the Presidential Medal of Freedom," the letter reads. "By recognizing Reverend Lawson's extraordinary achievements, we not only pay tribute to his lifelong commitment to justice but also reaffirm our nation's values of equality, freedom, and dignity for all."

Read the full letter here.