Rep. John Lewis to release multi-part graphic novel ‘Run’
The Civil Rights icon returns with book series about his storied activism in the 1960s.
The Civil Rights icon returns with book series about his storied activism in the 1960s.
Civil Rights icon Rep. John Lewis is set to release a new multi-part graphic novel, Run, which will chronicle his storied activism after the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
The congressman and his publisher announced the book series on Thursday. It follows his previous award-winning graphic trilogy, March, which was released shortly after the inauguration of President Barack Obama.
“In sharing my story, it is my hope that a new generation will be inspired by Run to actively participate in the democratic process and help build a more perfect union here in America,” Lewis said in a statement.
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Lewis will detail his arrest in Americus, Georgia, just two days after the landmark legislation was signed into law. State officials at the time had refused to adhere to the new order of land. Despite the city registering more than 300 new Black voters in one day, twice as many members of the Ku Klux Klan rallied in opposition, according to Time.
Run: Book One will also address challenges in the Civil Rights movement during that time, as Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) began to lose institutional support during Lewis’ tenure as chairman. Lewis’ term ultimately ended after internal conflict at the SNCC.
Lewis’ latest project will see him reunite with March co-author Andrew Aydin. Run will also feature artwork by Afua Richardson and March illustrator Nate Powell.