Civil rights advocate and Houston pastor Reverend William Lawson passes away at the age of 95, the church announces.
Reverend William A. Lawson, affectionately known as "Houston's Pastor," was a remarkable figure in the Houston community, providing guidance and support during turbulent times. In 1962, he established the Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, serving as its pastor for over four decades. His involvement in the civil rights movement alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whom he considered a close friend, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice.
Lawson's advocacy for equality extended beyond the church, where he founded a local chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). This organization played a significant role in initiating the civil rights movement. The church's obituary highlights his aptitude for bridging the gap between powerholders and underprivileged communities, making him a champion of social justice and community service.
A moment of silence was observed at Houston City Hall on Tuesday in honor of the influential figure. Houston Mayor John Whitmire encouraged locals to embody the values of fairness, safety, and equality for the city, as a tribute to Lawson's memory and work.
Mayor Whitmire shared sentiments of admiration, mentioning Lawson's prominent role in the city's social justice and civil rights landscape, rivaling that of any other individual in the country. He added that Lawson's leadership and character had an immense impact on the area's growth and development.
Representative Sheila Jackson Lee expressed her deep sorrow at Rev. Lawson's passing, expressing gratitude for his efforts during Houston's civil rights movement. In her online tribute, she thanked him for his pivotal role in shaping the city.
Commissioner Rodney Ellis paid homage to Lawson's role in the civil rights movement, recalling his bravery in hosting Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and supporting the semi-revolutionary Texas Southern University students on their own journey towards integration. Ellis noted that the city had already designated a park in memory of the determined advocate for justice and equality. This park, named "Rev. William and Audrey Lawson Park," will serve as a permanent homage to the Lawson family's unrelenting pursuit of equitable treatment for all members of the community.
In 2021, Rice University recognized Lawson's legacy by naming part of its campus "The Reverend William A. Lawson Grove." Lawson himself spoke at the unveiling ceremony, hoping that his legacy would inspire people to embrace diversity and respect one another.
"When it's your Dad, you don't really think how special they are," noted his daughter, Melanie Lawson, an ABC13 news anchor, at the event. "It's only through the perspective of others that you understand the profound impact he had."
Rice University President Reginald DesRoches emphasized that Lawson's legacy would withstand the test of time, expressed through the "Reverend William A. Lawson Grove" on the campus of Rice University.
Rev. Lawson's remains will be placed in state at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church on Thursday for a final farewell before internment.
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Following his passing, the city's residents were urged by Mayor John Whitmere to uphold Lawson's values of fairness, safety, and equality, honoring his commitment to civil rights.
As a devoted daughter, Melanie Lawson, an ABC13 news anchor, acknowledged during the unveiling ceremony at Rice University, her father's impact on the community was profound andheartily appreciated.
Source: edition.cnn.com
