Congressman John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell Visit Sewickley Academy
On Saturday, October 8, 2016, approximately 270 people gathered in Rea Auditorium to hear co-authors Congressman John Lewis and Andrew Aydin, and illustrator Nate Powell of “March,” The New York Times bestselling trilogy of graphic novels centered on the Civil Rights Movement.
Congressman Lewis discussed his role as a leader of the Movement. He recalled interactions with the legendary Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who aided in his pursuits of higher education, spoke of his work with the Freedom Riders and the horrific experiences of being jailed and beaten throughout the south and in particular in Selma, Alabama, during an historic Civil Rights march. Lewis talked about his training in the movement, “I studied the way of peace, the way of love. I studied the philosophy and discipline for non-violence. We [a small group of college and high school students] had a wonderful teacher by the name of Jim Lawson who Dr. King said had the best understanding of the philosophy and discipline of non-violence than anyone he knew.” Lewis’ involvement in peaceful protest translated into his life’s work as a congressman. He said, “I find ways to get into trouble. What I call good trouble, necessary trouble.”
Lewis’ co-author Aydin, who works alongside the congressman, and Powell, the illustrator of the books, shared how they transformed the civil rights leader’s story into a powerful graphic novel series and the profound impact this project has had on each of their lives.
The ticketed event opened with a cocktail reception, featured a lecture by the “March” team, and included a copy of one of the books from the series, which guests had the opportunity to have signed at the end of the event.
The evening was a part of Sweetwater Center for the Arts Mavuno (Swahili for “harvest”) Festival, which showcases African-American art and culture, and is celebrating its 20th landmark year with a bountiful season of events, workshops, and an exhibition in its gallery.
Sweetwater Center for the Arts, in collaboration with the ToonSeum, presented two events with Congressman Lewis, his “March” co-author Andrew Aydin, and illustrator Nate Powell on October 8. These events were made possible with generous support from the Pittsburgh Foundation and Carlow University.
Sweetwater would like to thank its 2016 Mavuno Partners: Carlow University, the Toonseum, Sewickley Academy, August Wilson Center, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, and The Pittsburgh Foundation.
Sewickley Academy opened its doors for this event as part of the 2016 – 2017 Sewickley Series.
The Sewickley Series brings authors, speakers, performers, and musicians to Sewickley Academy for the educational benefit and enjoyment of the community. The Series provides artistic and intellectual enrichment, creates a forum for diverse opinions on timely topics, and offers inspiring performances to engage members of our local and school community.
