Rep. John Lewis to deliver keynote at local Democratic Party fundraiser
Hamilton County Democratic Party officials have announced Rep. John Lewis, an Atlanta congressman and former leader of the civil rights movement, will be the keynote speaker at an upcoming party fundraiser Feb. 18.
Lewis, who has served as Georgia's 5th District representative since 1987, is the senior chief deputy whip for the Democratic Party in the House. Before his political career, Lewis chaired the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, speaking alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and helping organize the Selma to Montgomery marches.
In a news release, Democratic Party Chairman Paul Smith said he was looking forward to hosting the congressman in Chattanooga.
"It is a privilege to welcome Congressman Lewis, and we are deeply honored that he will be helping us prepare for the 2012 campaigns," Smith said. "His dedication to building what he has long called 'The Beloved Community' makes him the ideal person to launch the message of renewed commitment to Democratic principles and the American dream for all Americans."
The annual fundraiser, titled "Delivering America's Promise … Delivering America's Dream," will be held at Olivet Baptist Church on Martin Luther King Boulevard at 6:30 p.m. Admission to the event is $10. For $100, couples can participate in an hour-long meet-and-greet with Lewis prior to the event.
