The National Civil Rights Museum has announced this year’s Freedom Award recipients, with John Legend featured on the honorees’ list.
The esteemed award honors outstanding individuals for their significant contributions to civil and human rights. The Memphis, Tennessee-based museum will recognize Legend for using his gift of song, influence, and resources to promote social justice and equality, crediting his 2007 Show Me Campaign and his powerful recording “Preach.”
Others recipients include feminist writer Gloria Steinem and Nigerian human rights activist Hafsat Nabiola.
“These three honorees have devoted themselves to lifting communities of women, protecting our youngest and most vulnerable and have effectively utilized the power of community organizing to promote change,” said Terri Lee Freeman, president of National Civil Rights Museum. “They have drawn on the concept of peaceful protest, recognizing the freedom fighters and warriors that have gone before them. We are excited to share their stories and recognize their achievements.”
Awards for the 28th Freedom Award ceremony will be presented on October 30 at the Orpheum Theatre in Memphis. A pre-gala will be held ahead of the museum’s signature event. Tickets and sponsorship packages are available at freedomaward.org.
On the music front, Legend’s harrowing video for “Preach” is nominated for Video for Good at the 2019 MTV Video Music Awards. He is also up for Best Hip-Hop Video for “High” with DJ Khaled and the late Nipsey Hussle.
