Death of Rev. James Lawson

SOURCE www.npr.org
The Rev. James Lawson, a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement and advocate for nonviolent protest, has passed away at the age of 95. He mentored civil rights leaders and was behind desegregation campaigns in the South. Lawson's legacy includes promoting nonviolent resistance, mentoring activists like John Lewis and Diane Nash, and establishing the James Lawson Institute for the Research and Study of Nonviolent Movements.

Key Points

  • Advocated for nonviolent resistance and mentored civil rights leaders
  • Instrumental in desegregation campaigns in the South
  • Established the James Lawson Institute for the Research and Study of Nonviolent Movements

Pros

  • Advocate for nonviolent protest and resistance to racism
  • Mentored civil rights leaders and played a key role in desegregation campaigns in the South
  • Instrumental in the formation of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and active in other civil rights organizations

Cons

  • Assassination of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. had a negative impact on momentum for change and support for nonviolent resistance
  • Expelled from Vanderbilt University for his involvement in protests