Clyburn Receives "Great American Award" from Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn received the Louis E. Martin Great American Award from the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies on Wednesday, April 9, 2008 at the Center’s Annual Awards Dinner.
Clyburn, the highest ranking African American in Congress, was honored for his work towards the cause of civil rights, the advancement of human freedom, bridging the racial divide and making America a better place for all people.
The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies is one of the nation's premier research and public policy institutions and the only one whose work focuses exclusively on issues of particular concern to African Americans and other people of color. For over three decades, their research and information programs have informed and influenced public opinion and national policy to benefit not only African Americans, but every American.
The Louis E. Martin Great American Award is named in honor of a distinguished black journalist and presidential advisor whose commitment to justice, compassion, and the bridging of racial and ethnic divides led many to refer to him as “the godfather of black politics.” A principal founder of the Joint Center and the first chairman of its Board of Governors, Louis E. Martin also served three Democratic presidents and played a critical role in achieving passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
This award serves as a living legacy of the principles that Louis E. Martin followed. By publicly recognizing individuals whose work embodies a lifelong commitment to improving the human condition, the Joint Center hopes that others will be encouraged to make the United States and the world a better place. Former recipients of the distinguished award have been U.S. Rep. Charles B. Rangel, Former President William Jefferson Clinton, Muhammad Ali, Vernon E. Jordan and Former President Jimmy Carter.
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