A candlelight march and reading event called Good Trouble Lives On is set to take place on Thursday, July 17, at Roosevelt Square in Gainesville, marking the anniversary of Congressman John Lewis’s passing and renewing a call to defend civil and human rights through nonviolent action.
The event, sponsored by Indivisible Hall, is part of a nationwide movement inspired by Lewis’s lifelong commitment to nonviolent resistance. Over 1,600 Good Trouble Lives On rallies have been planned across the country.
Organizers want “gentle showing”
Organizer Dallas Thompson expects around 200 people to attend the Gainesville rally. Thompson was also an organizer for the No Kings protest in Poultry Park last month.
“We are excited about this protest because it’s about passing on the light,” she said. “It’s not just about protesting or standing up for what is right. It’s about spreading the good.”
The gathering begins at 7:30 p.m. at Roosevelt Square with a series of readings from John Lewis, fellow civil rights leaders, and advocates for democracy. Afterward, attendees will march to the pedestrian bridge over Jesse Jewell Parkway, where they will hold a candlelight vigil and sing freedom songs in unison.
“It will be a gentle showing,” Thompson said “We want our voices to be heard and we want people to see that we’re there in numbers.”
Participants are encouraged to join in the spirit of Lewis’ “Good Trouble” by upholding nonviolence and de-escalation throughout the evening. Organizers emphasize that candles will be provided, though LED candles are welcome.
The Good Trouble Lives On rally is open to all and intended to unite people across backgrounds in defense of voting rights and personal freedoms. It directly responds to legislation such as the SAVE Act and broader concerns about the criminalization of protest and political dissent.
“This is more than a protest,” the event page states. “It’s a continuation of the movement Lewis helped lead, and a new front in the struggle for freedom.”
To sign up for the event, visit the event page.
