Three Things for February 21
1. John Lewis foundation established in memory of late civil rights leader
The recently established John and Lilian Miles Lewis Foundation seeks to further the work of the late civil rights pioneers.
According to AP News, the foundation will work toward “strengthening democracy through civic engagement” and helping the next generation share their voice.
Linda Earley Chastang, former chief of staff to Lewis, will serve as the organization's president.
“[John and Lilian Lewis] were dedicated to creating a world in which the dignity and worth of every human being is recognized and valued,” said Chastang.
John-Miles Lewis, son of the late couple, said John Lewis imagined the creation of such a foundation before his death in 2020.
“When my dad thought of this foundation, it was his vision that it would support good work, inspire good troublemaking and do its part to make the world a better place,” Lewis said.
The foundation will celebrate its official launch in May in Washington D.C.
2. British entrepreneur and Youtuber dies at 31
On Sunday, Feb. 20, British musician Jamal Edwards died at the age of 31.
The entrepreneur was the founder of SBTV, an online urban music platform, and was known for launching the careers of Ed Sheeran, Jessie J and Rita Ora.
According to his mother, Edwards died due to “a sudden illness".
“The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall paid tribute to his work as an ambassador for The Prince's Trust,” reports BBC News.
The royals said they are thinking of his family during this time.
"An incredible innovator and entrepreneur, Jamal Edwards MBE has been an inspiration for so many young people, through our work and beyond,” said the Prince of Wales.
3. World’s largest cruise ships welcomes passengers
Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas will make its debut voyage from Fort Lauderdale, FL to the Caribbean on March 4.
According to CNN, the ship measures at 1,188 feet and “was built at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.”
The vessel has the capacity for 6,988 guests and 2,300 crew members.
"We're excited to introduce guests across the world to Wonder of the Seas and its world-class features after a six-year-long process," said Mark Tamis, senior vice president of hotel operations at Royal Caribbean International.
The ship was originally supposed to sail in 2021, but was delayed due to the pandemic.
"From planning to delivery, we've utilized our expertise across Royal Caribbean, as well as incorporating our guest's suggestions and travel partner feedback to create something truly awe-inspiring,” said Tamis.
The ship will begin offering week-long cruises from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to the Caribbean in March before launching Western Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona and Rome in May.
