LOUISVILLE, Ky. - One of the most inspiring awards ceremonies you’ll find anywhere took place in downtown Louisville Thursday evening. Many of the names on the guest list you’ve likely never heard of, but their impact on communities around the world is awe-inspiring.
“We stand on the shoulders of people who lived before us, such as Muhammad Ali,” said retired FDNY Captain Brenda Berkman. “Who made tremendous sacrifices to try to achieve greater social justice for people of all kinds.”
Berkman successfully sued in the 80s for the right to be the first woman New York fire fighter, and later, while off duty, rushed to nearest fire station and then the World Trade Center on 9/11. While standing in the shadow of no one, Berkman was on hand to present an award, to Mark Tewksbury, a former Canadian Olympian and one of the first athletes to come out as gay.
“Don’t be afraid to stand up, don’t be afraid to speak out,” the gold-medal-winning swimmer told Spectrum News 1. “21 years ago I came out and it was a radical move back then. I lost a lot but, somehow, as time goes by, that courage early has paid dividends later in life, so make sure to be yourself and speak out.”
One remarkable thing to witness was the six honorees that were 30-years-old and younger, meaning they have made massive contributions from a young age, and this platform can continue to propel their work for years to come.
“For me, this award means that it’s gonna enhance my ability to do more positive things,” said Jared Hiakita, a leader in conservation in his native New Zealand and beyond.
Many of the presenters and recipients said they felt honored to come to this state, this city, to be recognized; gathering some of the worlds most gifted and selfless minds right in Kentucky.
It’s another example of the legacy of Muhammad Ali.
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PUBLISHED 3:52 AM EDT Sep. 13, 2019