An Oral History Project Conducted by John Robert Lewis Leader Amanda Holder Jolly
Project Description
My oral history project explores how food and activism intersect to support the “beloved community” envisioned by the late Rep. John Lewis. In a fireside chat with the owners of the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl in Washington, D.C., I examined the family’s six-decade commitment to service. From the vibrant era of “Black Broadway” through the 1968 uprisings to present-day social justice movements, Ben’s Chili Bowl has remained a safe haven for activists, artists, and everyday Washingtonians. The interview offers powerful insight into the restaurant’s role in the civil rights movement, inspiring intergenerational dialogue on legacy, resilience, and the importance of Black-owned community institutions.
