News Summary
Protesters gathered outside Beaufort City Hall to remember Congressman John Lewis during the National Day of Action titled “Good Trouble Lives On.” The rally, which attracted around 200 participants, highlighted the ongoing fight for social justice and opposition to the Trump administration’s policies. Activities included a connection with a sister city in Ukraine, reinforcing themes of unity and solidarity. Similar protests were held across the country, showcasing a strong commitment to Lewis’s legacy and the continuous struggle for civil rights.
Beaufort, South Carolina – Protesters gathered outside Beaufort City Hall on Thursday, July 17, to honor the late Congressman John Lewis and to participate in a National Day of Action named “Good Trouble Lives On.” The event drew around 200 attendees despite the summer heat, reflecting a strong community commitment to Lewis’s legacy and advocacy for social justice. The focus was also on opposing the policies of the Trump administration.
The rally commemorated the anniversary of Congressman Lewis’s death and emphasized his famous call to “get in good trouble, necessary trouble”—a guiding principle in his lifelong fight for equity and justice. Participants engaged actively, holding signs and chanting slogans that highlighted their concerns about current political issues and the adverse impacts of the policies enacted during Trump’s presidency.
Activities during the event included a ZOOM video call facilitated by local Rotary Clubs, connecting Beaufort residents with a sister city in Ukraine, which added an international dimension to the gathering. This initiative reflected a broader theme of unity and solidarity in the struggle for justice, a hallmark of Lewis’s legacy.
Nationwide, similar protests took place in other cities, showcasing a significant movement among Americans committed to preserving the ideals that Lewis stood for. A notable event occurred in Aiken, South Carolina, on July 18, where locals participated in a Good Trouble Lives Rally and March. Participants walked down York Street in a peaceful demonstration, echoing the sentiments of their Beaufort counterparts by honoring Lewis while voicing opposition to the Trump administration.
In Chicago, activists marched through the Loop as part of the coordinated national effort on July 17. Some participants donned costumes of the Statue of Liberty, further symbolizing their commitment to freedom and civil rights. Meanwhile, in Palm Beach, Florida, protesters assembled outside Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, displaying signs that read “Impeach Trump” and vocally challenging his supporters.
As part of these nationwide demonstrations, the protests addressed concerns surrounding policies such as mass deportations and cuts to Medicaid, which have drawn widespread criticism. Law enforcement was present at many of the protests to maintain order and ensure safety for the demonstrators. The events included speeches, prayers, and reflective moments concentrated on civil rights and social justice issues, further amplifying the message and purpose of the demonstrations.
The “Good Trouble Lives On” rallies are viewed as a continuation of the activism that Congressman Lewis championed throughout his life. He was renowned for his unwavering commitment to civil rights and social equality, which continues to inspire activists across the nation. By joining together in these demonstrations, participants aim to keep his spirit alive and effectuate change through peaceful protest.
The nationwide protests were widely reported, serving as a testament to the enduring influence of Lewis’s work and philosophy. As communities engage in these events, they reaffirm their dedication to fighting for justice and holding leaders accountable for their actions, emphasizing that even in times of political unrest, the fight for equality and fairness will persevere.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Activists Defend Right to Protest in Beaufort
Additional Resources
- Your Island News: Good Trouble Protest
- Wikipedia: John Lewis (civil rights leader)
- WSAV: Good Trouble Lives On Protests
- Google Search: Good Trouble Lives On
- Your Island News: St. Helena Teen Shot and Killed
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Civil Rights Movement
- Post and Courier: Good Trouble Lives Rally and March
- Google News: Good Trouble Lives
- Reflector: Good Trouble Protests Across the US
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
