The John Robert Lewis Scholars & Fellows Program
Reflections on the program from Several John Robert Lewis Scholars & Fellows
Mission
The Faith & Politics Institute works to bridge the divides that arise in our thriving democracy and create productive paths forward. We ground our work in the philosophy of civil rights leader and Board Chair Emeritus, the late Congressman John Lewis. Like Lewis, we believe that making lasting positive social change requires that “the means and ends are inseparable.”
Since 1991, we have brought US Presidents, Cabinet members, Members of Congress of both chambers and parties, diplomats, nonprofit and corporate leaders together through our nonpartisan work. We foster greater understanding, mutual respect, moral reflection, and honest conversation to achieve a just and peaceful nation aspired to by our Founders and their heirs.
Our vision is based on three important tenets:
• Strengthening moral leadership to advance our democracy;
• Cultivating mutual respect, moral reflection and honest conversation required to build common ground, create positive change, and dissent without degradation; and
• Bridging differences of political affiliation, geography, faith, class, and race for the common good.
After the passing of Congressman Lewis July 17, 2020, it became clear FPI could work to fulfill his mandate that “we all have roles to play” as his mantle is extended to the next generation of leaders. To this end, FPI has established the John Robert Lewis Scholars & Fellows Program.
“This program has definitely changed my perspective in what it means to create effective change using the nonviolence principles. I’ve seen what can really be accomplished when we all work together to empower the community.” - Camila Gomez, Cohort 1
"One of our speakers told us that the work that we're doing and the reason that we're all here together is to realize that there are a bunch of ordinary people everywhere doing extraordinary things. I’m really excited to continue to maintain these connections and build on the knowledge and the skills that I already have through my relationship with everyone here to continue this work in the future throughout my career." - Lauren Tolbert, Cohort 2
Contact Information: Send any questions to Marisa Pryor, Director of Educational Programs, FPI Education@faithandpolitics.org