Justin J. Pearson gave fiery remarks following the vote Wednesday by the Shelby County Board of Commissioners to appoint him to represent the district in the Tennessee House of Representatives after he was expelled last week.

“Nashville thought they could silence democracy, but they didn't know that the Shelby County Commission was filled with some courageous leaders,” said Pearson, who will serve on an interim basis in the legislature.

He added, speaking to cheering supporters:

“You can't expel hope. You can't expel justice. You can't expel our voice. And you sure can't expel our fight. We look forward to continuing to fight. Continuing to advocate. Until justice rolls down like water. And righteousness like an ever-flowing stream. Let's get back to work.” (CNN)

•PHOTO: Justin Pearson enters the meeting room of the Shelby County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday, April 12, in Memphis, Tennessee. (Adrian Sainz/AP)