Good Trouble Lives On Joplin RECAP

On Thursday, July 17, residents gathered in downtown Joplin for Good Trouble Lives On, a nationwide day of action honoring the life and legacy of civil rights hero Congressman John Lewis. Organized by Indivisible Joplin and Joplin for Justice, the local event was part of hundreds of coordinated actions across the country, where participants demanded an end to the growing attacks on voting rights, civil liberties, and essential public programs.

Speaker Melodee Colbert-Kean, Joplin's first African American elected mayor and the former President of the National League of Cities, shared her personal experiences with John Lewis, calling him “the most humble, fierce advocate” she had encountered. She encouraged attendees to follow his example by becoming civically engaged.

The event featured local organizers from various groups, including Julie Joplin Media, 4-States-4 Free Palestine, The Rainbow Fight Club, 50501 Missouri, Indivisible Joplin, and Joplin for Justice. It also included a Third Thursday booth where volunteers provided information on civil rights and local resources, while helping children make buttons and signs.

Jim West, Assistant Secretary of the NAACP and the second African American City Council member in Joplin, emphasized the importance of civic engagement, sharing his journey of persistence in running for city council. He urged young leaders to take up causes and fight for them, just as Congressman John Lewis did.

In honor of Lewis’ legacy, participants committed to continuing the fight for a multiracial democracy where every voice matters and everyone has the freedom to thrive.

For more information about the national campaign, visit www.goodtroubleliveson.org.

Good Trouble Lives On’s Third Thursday booth provided information on civil rights and local resources.

Speaker Melodee Colbert-Kean, Joplin's first African American elected mayor and the former President of the National League of Cities, shared her personal experiences with John Lewis.

Organizers Jenna Ehrhardt of Indivisible Joplin (left) and Dola Flake of Joplin for Justice (right) gather attendees for a memorial vigil in honor of Congressman John Lewis.

Speaker Jim West shared his journey of persistence in running for city council.

A  resource board displayed at the event shared information on local civically involved organizations.