President Barack Obama eulogy at John Lewis funeral

Former President Barack Obama eulogized civil rights icon, Rep. John Lewis, during his funeral service on Thursday, July 30. During his speech, Obama spoke about the virtues of equality, why the best way to honor Lewis is to vote and the first time he met Lewis. Obama called Lewis one of his heroes, saying he first met him while in law school, then again when he was elected to the U.S. Senate. When Obama was elected President in 2008, he told Lewis, "this is your day, too."

"George Wallace may be gone, but we can witness our federal government sending agents to use tear gas and batons against peaceful demonstrators," Obama said. "If politicians want to honor John, let's revitalize the law that he was willing to die for."

Obama also spoke at length about the importance of voting and why Lewis dedicated his life so that all Americans could share freedom.

The services will be held at Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King, Jr. once preached, with ceremonies beginning at 11 a.m. A recessional will mark the end of ceremonies at 12:30 p.m.

The Civil Rights icon died July 17 after serving the people of the Fifth District for 17 terms. The Georgia Democrat was 80 years old.

Former President Barack Obama is expected to deliver the eulogy. Obama has been know to credit the civil rights icon for helping him become the nation's first Black president.

TO READ MORE, OR WATCH THE SERVICE LIVE WITH CLOSED CAPTION: https://www.wcnc.com/article/life/people/john-lewis/john-lewis-funeral-stream/85-ddf4b9af-c8ea-409e-8cac-1c72d3bf3a1f

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