Memphis honors civil rights pioneers at Freedom Award tribute
- The National Civil Rights Museum will host a Freedom Award Ceremony on October 17, 2024, in Memphis, TN.
- Four influential figures in civil, human, and labor rights will be honored posthumously for their contributions to social justice.
- This tribute highlights the museum's commitment to recognizing the legacy of those who fought against systemic oppression.
On October 17, 2024, the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, TN, will honor four significant figures in civil, human, and labor rights with a posthumous tribute during its Freedom Award Ceremony. Rabbi James A. Wax, who played a crucial role in the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers' Strike, dedicated his life to social justice and mental health advocacy. Margot Stern Strom, co-founder of Facing History & Ourselves, transformed educational approaches to moral decision-making and human rights, inspired by her experiences growing up in the racially divided Jim Crow South. Reverend James M. Lawson, Jr., a strategist of nonviolent resistance, continued to advocate for civil rights and equality for marginalized groups throughout his life. William "Bill" Lucy, a prominent labor leader, is best known for his slogan "I Am A Man" during the sanitation strike and significantly expanded union membership during his tenure with AFSCME. This ceremony reflects the ongoing commitment to honoring those who have fought against systemic oppression and uplifted marginalized communities, showcasing the museum's dedication to preserving the legacy of civil rights leaders.