News Summary
On July 17, 2025, rallies across the U.S. commemorated the legacy of civil rights leader John Lewis, marking the fifth anniversary of his passing. Activists organized these ‘Good Trouble’ protests in response to actions by the Trump administration perceived as threats to civil and human rights. Participants engaged in peaceful demonstrations, reflecting on Lewis’s life and encouraging nonviolent resistance as a means to uphold justice and equality. The nationwide events showcased collaboration among various civil rights organizations, emphasizing the ongoing need for activism and civic engagement.
Providence, Rhode Island – Dozens of “Good Trouble” rallies took place across the United States on July 17, 2025, marking the fifth anniversary of the death of civil rights leader John Lewis. Protests were organized in response to recent actions taken by the Trump administration that activists perceive as undermining civil and human rights. The nationwide events aimed to preserve and amplify Lewis’s legacy, which was deeply rooted in the fight for justice and equality.
Rallies unfolded in various Rhode Island communities, including Providence, East Providence, and Newport, as well as in Massachusetts cities like New Bedford and Fairhaven. Organizers of the protests expected at least 1,600 demonstrations to occur nationwide as part of a coordinated effort to stand against policies they view as a rollback of civil rights.
While attending the events, individuals reflected on John Lewis’s courageous life and the sacrifices he made throughout his decades-long commitment to justice. Participants highlighted the importance of honoring his legacy, reminding everyone of his work on behalf of the marginalized and disenfranchised.
Prominent among the key messages of the protests was the phrase “Get in good trouble,” coined by Lewis himself. This call to action encourages individuals to engage in nonviolent resistance and uphold the principles of civil rights. Attendees were reminded of the core values of the rallies, with organizers urging participants to maintain peaceful conduct and refrain from bringing weapons to the events—even those that are legally permitted.
A collaborative effort, the protests saw partnerships between various civil rights and voting rights organizations, including Indivisible and Black Voters Matter, alongside the Transformative Justice Coalition. This coalition aimed to ensure that the events remained firmly rooted in nonviolent principles and fostered an environment of de-escalation among participants.
The protests come in the wake of earlier mass “No Kings” protests held in June 2025, which echoed similar sentiments of resistance against perceived injustices. On the day of the rallies, organizers also included virtual events and vigils to remember John Lewis, reinforcing the theme of collective action and respect for the late congressman’s contributions to the civil rights movement.
John Lewis, recognized as a stalwart voice in the fight for civil rights, had a storied history of activism. He played a significant role in the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and was instrumental in organizing the March on Washington in 1963 alongside Martin Luther King Jr. His efforts to dismantle discriminatory Jim Crow policies have shaped modern civil rights advocacy and continue to resonate today.
Before passing away from Stage IV pancreatic cancer in July 2020, Lewis had openly criticized many policies of President Donald Trump, becoming a prominent figure in the contemporary discourse on civil rights. The “Good Trouble Lives On” rallies serve as a reminder of his enduring impact and the ongoing need for activism in the face of governmental decisions that threaten the rights of individuals.
In hosting these rallies, participants reaffirmed their commitment to carry on the fight for equality, echoing Lewis’s belief in the power of collective action and civic engagement. With a range of activities, including screenings of the documentary “John Lewis: Good Trouble,” the events sought to inspire the next generation of activists in their pursuit of justice and equality for all.
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Additional Resources
- WPRI: Good Trouble Protests in RI
- Providence Journal: Good Trouble Rallies
- Patch: Good Trouble Rallies in Rhode Island
- Wikipedia: John Lewis
- Google Search: Good Trouble Protests
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
