Congressman John Lewis (D-Atlanta) will be the Keynote Speaker for the annual "For The People Rally" at the Georgia Mountains Center in Gainesville on Sunday, September 21.

Congressman Lewis is one of the most courageous individuals to emerge from the Civil Rights Movement, and has served as the Representative from Georgia's 5th district since 1987.

"We are excited to host a true American hero for our rally," said Abb Hayes, Chairman of the Hall County Democratic Party. "His importance in this nation's history is unrivaled, and we're thrilled to have him speak next weekend."

Congressman Lewis first arrived on the national stage during the Freedom Rides of 1961, where he challenged segregation on bus systems throughout the south. He soon emerged as a national civil-rights leader, and was an organizer and keynote speaker at the March on Washington in 1963. Soon, Congressman Lewis spearheaded the historic march in Selma, Alabama. This event is one of the most indelible images of the American Civil Rights Movement.

In 1981, Lewis was elected to the Atlanta City Council. Soon after, he was elected to the United States Congress, where he became only the second African-American to represent Georgia since Reconstruction. He has served his Atlanta constituents with distinction since 1987.

Despite numerous injuries, over 40 arrests, and the assassination of his good friend Dr. Martin Luther King, Congressman Lewis has remained a passionate advocate of non-violence when confronting unjust social policies.

His keynote speech will be the finale of the "For The People Rally" at the Georgia Mountains Center on Sunday, September 21. The event, which celebrates the values of the Democratic Party, will be held from 1 pm to 5 pm. Georgia residents of all ages are invited to attend.

Other scheduled speakers include Democratic Senate Candidate Jim Martin, Congressional Candidates Jeff Scott, Bobby Saxon, Bill Jones and Doug Heckman, and Public Service Commission Candidate Jim Powell.

Former State Legislator and Congressional Candidate Wyc Orr will be the host of the event.