Obituary: Rev. James Lawson Jr., Iconic Civil Rights Leader, Dies at 95

 The Rev. James Lawson Jr., a prominent civil rights leader and tireless advocate for nonviolent resistance, passed away on June 10, 2024, at the age of 95 due to complications related to pneumonia. His lifelong commitment to social justice and equality has left an indelible mark on the fabric of American society.

 The Rev. James Lawson Jr., a towering figure in the civil rights movement and advocate for nonviolent resistance, passed away on June 10, 2024, at 95 due to complications from pneumonia

 

Born on September 22, 1928, in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, James Morris Lawson Jr. was deeply influenced by his Christian faith and the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. After earning a degree in sociology from Baldwin Wallace College, he traveled to India as a missionary, where he studied Gandhi's principles of nonviolent protest. This experience profoundly shaped his approach to activism.

Upon returning to the United States, Lawson enrolled in the Graduate School of Theology at Oberlin College. He became actively involved in the civil rights movement, notably joining forces with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Lawson's workshops on nonviolent resistance trained countless activists, including the young leaders who would spearhead the sit-ins and Freedom Rides of the 1960s.

Lawson's influence was particularly felt in Nashville, Tennessee, where he served as a mentor to a new generation of civil rights activists. His guidance and strategic acumen were crucial in the success of the Nashville sit-ins, which led to the desegregation of lunch counters in the city. He was arrested multiple times for his participation in these protests, steadfastly adhering to the principles of nonviolence.

Throughout his life, Lawson continued to champion social justice causes. He was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War, a supporter of labor rights, and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. His commitment to peace and justice extended to his pastoral work, most notably at Holman United Methodist Church in Los Angeles, where he served as pastor from 1974 until his retirement in 1999.

Lawson's teachings and writings have inspired generations of activists. He received numerous awards and honors for his work, including the James M. Lawson Jr. Award for Nonviolent Achievement, established in his honor by Vanderbilt University. His legacy is a testament to the power of nonviolent resistance and the enduring fight for equality and justice.

The Rev. James Lawson Jr. is survived by his two sons, John and Philip, and his grandchildren. His family, friends, and countless admirers mourn the loss of a true giant in the struggle for civil rights. A memorial service will be held at Holman United Methodist Church, where the community will gather to honor his life and contributions.

In lieu of flowers, the Lawson family requests donations be made to organizations dedicated to civil rights and social justice, continuing his mission of fostering a more equitable world.

Rev. James Lawson Jr.'s legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations, reminding us all of the enduring power of love, nonviolence, and unwavering commitment to justice.