NCRM 33rd Freedom Award Promotional Video – 30s FINAL

The National Civil Rights Museum is proud to announce the distinguished honorees for the 33rd Freedom Award, recognizing their exceptional contributions to civil and human rights. The Freedom Award, the Museum’s signature event, pays tribute to individuals who have shown unwavering commitment to promoting equity and justice.

The esteemed honorees for the 33rd Freedom Award are:
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

The prestigious Freedom Award ceremony is held October 17, 2024, at 7:00 pm Central at the historic Orpheum Theatre in Memphis, TN. It is preceded by the Pre-Award Gala and Red Carpet at 5:30 pm at the adjacent Halloran Centre.