WASHINGTON (November 16) – The Faith & Politics Institute has recognized Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6) with a leadership award for his service in promoting racial understanding and political civility.

Congressman Bachus was presented with the 2012 John Lewis-Amory Houghton Leadership Award at the Faith & Politics Institute dinner in Washington on Wednesday.  Bachus has annually served as a co-host for the organization’s annual Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Alabama, which brings Members of Congress from both parties to the state for visits to major landmarks of the movement for racial equality.

“It is an honor to receive this award from the Faith & Politics Institute, which plays an important role in helping to encourage understanding and civility both within Congress and in our greater society.  My involvement with the annual civil rights pilgrimages to Alabama has been one of the highlights of my service in Congress.  It is a reminder of how the principle of nonviolence brought about peaceful and needed change in our society and of the powerful role that faith played in changing minds and hearts,” said Congressman Bachus. 

Liz McCloskey, President & CEO of the Faith & Politics Institute, said, “The Faith and Politics Institute is pleased to recognize Congressman Bachus with this award.  The Lewis-Houghton Award is given to public figures who are exemplary in their efforts to bridge political, racial, and religious divides and who have exhibited qualities of conscience, courage, and compassion in their role as public servants.  Congressman Bachus has demonstrated those values during the many years that he has worked with the Faith & Politics Institute in Washington and his home state of Alabama.”

Bachus was introduced by Senator Roy Blunt of Missouri during the ceremonies. Congressman James Clyburn of South Carolina also received the Lewis-Houghton Award and was introduced by House Minority Leader Steny Hoyer.

The award is named in honor of Congressman John Lewis, a historic civil rights figure, and retired congressman Amory Houghton, the former Chairman and CEO of Corning Glass.  Lewis and Houghton played key roles in expanding the collaboration between the Faith and & Politics Institute and Members of Congress.