Velma Lois Jones
Educator & Civil Rights Leader
A lifelong Memphian who made history as the first Black and longest-serving President of the Tennessee Education Association, and the first woman to lead the NAACP Memphis Branch.
The 35th Annual
October 1, 2026
The Orpheum Theatre · Downtown Memphis
Each fall the National Civil Rights Museum honors individuals whose courage and conviction have advanced civil and human rights around the world — celebrating an unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
Pre-Show Gala & Red Carpet · 5:30 PM · Halloran Centre · Ceremony · 7:00 PM · The Orpheum
The Signature Event
A legacy of honoring the champions of freedom
Join us for the National Civil Rights Museum’s signature event at the historic Orpheum Theatre in Downtown Memphis. Since 1991, this prestigious ceremony has honored distinguished individuals who have made a significant global and national impact through their work in the struggle for civil and human rights.
The award ceremony is preceded by the Pre-Award Gala and Red Carpet at the adjacent Halloran Centre. Tickets for the evening are available via Ticketmaster, and event sponsorships are available.
A rich legacy of honoring distinguished civil and human rights leaders.
2025 Honorees
This Year's Recipients
Meet this year’s Freedom Award recipients — leaders whose courage and service advance civil and human rights.
Mark Suzman
CEO, The Gates Foundation
From his upbringing in apartheid South Africa to his work with the United Nations, he has built global partnerships to advance health, education, and economic opportunity for all.
Marc H. Morial
President & CEO, National Urban League
Since 2003 he has transformed the century-old civil rights organization with a renewed focus on economic empowerment, education, and criminal justice reform — expanding opportunity for underserved communities nationwide.
Entertainment
Host
Larenz Tate
Celebrated actor known for Menace II Society, Love Jones, and Power Book II: Ghost, championing Black storytelling across film and television.
Performance
Wendy Moten
Acclaimed vocalist and Memphis native celebrated for powerhouse performances on NBC’s The Voice and international music stages.
The Experience
An evening of celebration & tribute
Award Ceremony
Honorees are presented the award for their work, impact, and accomplishments in the name of freedom and civil rights, with a Special Tribute to those who stand against injustice.
Pre-Show Gala
The perfect gateway to the ceremony. Walk the red carpet, partake in delectable cuisine and libations, and get ready for an evening to remember. Attire is cocktail.
Student Forum
Students attend to learn about Freedom Award honorees and their impact — discussing issues that matter to their communities.
Student Forum
Connecting our youth, giving them a voice
A celebration for and by young trailblazers. Presented by FedEx and Ford Philanthropy, this hybrid event invites school groups nationally — inspiring educators and students in 5th–12th grade through the purpose-driven lives of Freedom Award honorees.
The Keeper of the Dream award honors 6th–12th graders across Greater Memphis for their extraordinary courage, compassion, leadership, and service.
When
Oct 1, 2026 · 10 AM CT
Where
Miss. Blvd. Christian Church
Teachers & youth-group leaders must register by September 26.
Livestream
Join us on the red carpet
Hear from the Freedom Award honorees and guests as they arrive, streamed live from Memphis.
Sponsorship
Align your name with a legacy of justice
The Freedom Award pays tribute to individuals whose tenacity, determination, and tireless efforts have contributed significantly to civil and human rights. Even through trials and tragedies, they remain invested in lighting the way for those who struggle.