John Lewis rallies crowd at Atlanta march

Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.) rallied an Atlanta crowd on Saturday during the city’s Women’s March that coincided with events across the country, recalling his experience protesting during the Civil Rights Movement.

“I know something about marching,” the civil rights icon said as the Atlanta crowd cheered.

“I marched in Nashville. I marched in Washington. I marched from Selma to Montgomery. I’m ready to march again.” 

Lewis boycotted President Donald Trump’s inauguration, after saying last week he did not see him as a “legitimate president.”

{mosads}The comments sparked ire from Trump, who slammed Lewis on Twitter, prompting many Democrats to rush to their longtime colleague’s defense. 

“Congressman John Lewis should spend more time on fixing and helping his district, which is in horrible shape and falling apart (not to mention crime infested) rather than falsely complaining about the election results. All talk, talk, talk – no action or results. Sad!” Trump said in several tweets. 

More than 60 Democratic lawmakers refused to attend the inauguration, some citing Trump’s criticism of Lewis as a reason.

Lewis on Saturday told the crowd not to “let anybody turn you around,” telling attendees about his many arrests during the Civil Rights Movement. 

“We have a moral obligation to fight, so never ever lose hope,” Lewis said.