US Rep. John Lewis to speak at Emory commencement

ATLANTA (AP) - Civil rights icon and U.S. Congressman John Lewis is scheduled to speak at Emory University’s graduation ceremony.

The school says Lewis will deliver the keynote address at its 169th commencement ceremony on May 12 on Emory’s campus quadrangle. About 15,000 people are expected to attend the ceremony.

Lewis, who joined the freedom riders, rode interstate buses in a push to get the federal government to enforce a Supreme Court ruling prohibiting segregation in bus stations, is also Presidential Medal of Freedom holder.

Lewis will receive an honorary doctor of laws degree at the ceremony. Emory alumnus and former chair of the board of trustees for 13 years Ben F. Johnson III and Spelman College President Beverly Daniel Tatum will join Lewis as recipients of honorary degrees.

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Online:

www.emory.edu/commencement