20th Anniversary of Rev. Leon H. Sullivan’s Presidential Medal of Freedom
Today, November 18, 2011, is the 20th anniversary of the day my father was recognized by the United States of America for his vast achievements nationally and internationally. As I got ready this morning, I remembered getting ready that morning and going to the White House with my father, mother, and siblings for the Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony that President George H.W. Bush held.
President Bush took note of my father’s “voice of reason” for over forty years and his lifetime devotion to helping economically and socially disadvantaged people gain equal rights under law throughout world. (See President Bush’s exact statement here).
I was proud to go with him that morning, and I am proud to continue his work today. I am privileged to have had Leon Sullivan’s voice of reason guide my entire life, and I was overjoyed to see the President of the United States recognize him as a role-model for his groundbreaking achievements in the Civil Rights Movement and on the continent of Africa.
This December 15th, the Leon Sullivan Foundation, will recognize individuals and entities making similarly groundbreaking advancements for the nations and people of Africa. So, I invite you all to join me in celebrating the day President Bush honored my father by also honoring him through your attendance at the 2011 Sullivan Honors in Washington, D.C. Click here to view the event summary
Sincerely,
Hope Sullivan Masters
President and CEO