Freedom Award

07/09/2024

We’re proud to share the distinguished honorees for the 33rd Freedom Award, recognizing their exceptional contributions to civil and human rights.

The esteemed honorees are:

· SPIKE LEE, Academy Award-winning filmmaker whose groundbreaking work has reshaped filmmaking and cinema, has inspired national conversations around race, representation, and culture. Lee is also a dedicated educator, serving as a tenured professor committed to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.

· SHERRILYN IFILL, President and Director-Counsel Emeritus of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund (LDF), has left an indelible mark on civil rights advocacy. Her tenure as Director-Counsel saw LDF’s increased engagement in civil rights issues, particularly in combatting voter suppression and racial discrimination.

· XERNONA CLAYTON, civil and human rights activist and producer who worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the SCLC, has been a trailblazing leader in civil rights and broadcasting for 60 years. Clayton is renowned as the Founder and President of the Trumpet Awards Foundation. Her pioneering spirit in broadcasting continues to inspire generations.

The Freedom Award, the Museum’s signature fundraising event, pays tribute to individuals who’ve shown unwavering commitment to promoting equity and justice. Your ticket purchase supports free year-round programming and more! Visit https://tr.ee/33FAHonorees to learn more and secure your spot at the 33rd Freedom Award!

11/08/2022

“This is … wow.” Thank you to Lewis Black for stopping by the museum today! It was a pleasure welcoming the comedian while he used some free time on his busy schedule to learn more about civil rights history.

The entertainer reflected on memories of his recalling being in the crowd at Dr. King’s March on Washington in 1963.

10/21/2022

10/17/2022

The National Civil Rights Museum’s Student Forum, a celebration for and by young movement makers, is opening its virtual doors worldwide! 🌎

The program kicks off the Freedom Award festivities and is an opportunity for students to be inspired by the purpose-driven lives of Freedom Award honorees.

For the Livestream link, register at freedomaward.org

10/05/2022

Each year the museum’s Freedom Award pays tribute to individuals who have contributed significantly to civil and human rights. The honorees have carved unique paths for the betterment of society.

Visit freedomaward.org to learn more about this year’s award ceremony!



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10/04/2022

is the only 4x World Poetry Slam Champion and Emmy winner!

He has performed on international stages and on several seasons of TV One’s “Verses and Flow.”

To hear the awe-inspiring message he’ll deliver at this year’s Freedom Award, get your ticket to the event at freedomaward.org.

09/10/2021

📣🚨DEADLINE TODAY! We're still accepting applications for this year’s Keeper of the Dream award, honoring 6th-12th graders throughout the Memphis area who have demonstrated a commitment to ensuring equal rights & opportunities for others.

Apply here by midnight at https://bit.ly/KODInfo21

09/09/2021

✨Keeper of the Dream winner Brooklyn Johnson recognized a need for safe, affordable enrichment programs for children in the gap between when the school year ends and community summer programs begin, Brooklyn set out to find a solution.

If you know a teen with moxie and initiative like her, nominate them NOW at https://bit.ly/KODInfo21.

**Tomorrow, 9/10/21, is the deadline!

09/07/2021

📣We're looking for the next generation of leaders!

Apply to be a Keeper of the Dream Award recipient today. Students grades 6-12 in the Greater Memphis Area, the deadline is Sept. 10. You don't want to sleep on this opportunity!

More info at https://bit.ly/KODInfo21

09/04/2021

📣Yaaas! Tickets are now on sale for the 30th Freedom Award honoring Michelle Obama and The Poor People's Campaign! You do NOT want to miss this virtual soiree to support the Museum!

Get tickets at freedomaward.org

09/03/2021

✨Want to know more about the 30th Freedom Award and the honorees?

Check out this brief video and get the deets at freedomaward.org.