doi:10.7916/dx91-vq33Oral history interview with Kevin Lewis, 2022Lewis, Kevinoral historiesmixed materialPresidents--United StatesAfrican American mass mediaBlack mass media--United StatesPrison reform--United StatesPrison sentences--United StatesPresidential campaigns--United StatesLewis, KevinObama, BarackMartin, Trayvon, 1995-2012United States. Department of JusticeKevin Lewis recounts his experience as assistant to press secretary Robert Gibbs from 2009 to 2010, as director of African American media from 2010 to 2014, and in communications roles at the Department of Justice (DOJ) from 2014 to 2017. Lewis focuses on his role as director of African American media, describing his work to amplify the administration's policy priorities and advocate for Black media groups to have a seat at the table. He recounts how the murder of Trayvon Martin led him to transition to the DOJ in 2014, and outlines his close relationship with Attorney General Eric Holder, the department's work on sentencing and prison reform, and efforts to evolve the structure of law enforcement. Reflecting on Obama's request for him to create an office and plan for his post-presidency, Lewis discusses becoming the chief spokesperson for Obama's personal office after leaving the administration. Also discussed are Lewis' experiences in then-Senator Obama's inaugural Yes We Can fellowship and as press assistant on the Obama campaign from 2007 to 2008, his trips to South Africa, and his reverence for Congressman John Lewis