Lewis tributes will begin today in Alabama

Family urges those interested to livestream events in their homes.

As a congressman and civil rights icon, John Lewis inspired the lives of many throughout his lifetime. Though Lewis’ funeral Thursday at Atlanta’s historic Ebenezer Baptist Church will be a private event, there are many opportunities and ways to celebrate his legacy in the days ahead.

Celebration of life ceremonies will take place over six days — beginning today in Alabama — for Lewis, who died July 17 at age 80 after being diagnosed last year with pancreatic cancer.

A military honor guard will accompany Lewis during all the events, including the crossing of the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, on Sunday and while he lies in state in Montgomery, Washington and Atlanta.

Masks and social distancing will be required at each of the events.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the family is encouraging those who would like to honor his life to watch the ceremonies from their homes with John Lewis Virtual Love events. The ceremonies are expected to be livestreamed on multiple platforms.

Also, members of the public are encouraged to tie a blue or purple ribbon on their front

doors or place them in their front yards to commemorate his life. Supporters can also post videos, photos, songs or any kind of virtual tribute to John Lewis by using the hashtags #BelovedCommunity or #HumanDignity or leave a written tribute at theJohnLewisLegacy.com.

Today’s theme as the celebration of life begins in his hometown is “The Boy From Troy.” The scheduled events:

■ 10 to 11 a.m. CT, Trojan Arena, Troy University in Troy, Alabama: This ceremony is open to the public, but seating is limited. Participants must obtain a ticket in the parking lot of the arena upon arrival to enter the facility. Due to the need to maintain social distancing, only 800 public seats are available. Attendees will be required to wear face and mouth coverings.

■ 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. CT, Trojan Arena, Troy University: Lewis lies in repose. Open to the public. Attendees will be required to wear face and mouth coverings.

■ 6 to 8 p.m. CT, Brown Chapel AME Church, Selma: Given COVID-19 precautions, this event is not open to the public. Attendees will be required to wear face and mouth coverings.

■ 8 to 11 p.m. CT, Brown Chapel AME Church, Selma: Lewis lies in repose. Open to the public. Attendees will be required to wear face and mouth coverings.

FOR AJC

OLIVIER DOULIERY / ABACA PRESS 2017 Rep. John Lewis died July 17 at 80 after being diagnosed last year with pancreatic cancer.