The contributions one individual makes to his or her community can improve the lives of many. To celebrate the contributions of individuals in the African-American community, we present the Ford Freedom Award and the Ford Freedom Award Scholar at a black-tie gala each year.
Recognizing Individuals
We launched the Ford Freedom Award program in 1999, working with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History. The program has created a forum to celebrate and recognize individuals whose achievements have brought lasting and positive change for African-Americans and the world.
Ford Freedom Award Recipients
The Ford Freedom Award Honoree is presented posthumously to a distinguished African American who has dedicated his or her life to improving the African-American community and the world at large through their chosen field.
Past Freedom Award Honorees have included the following individuals:
2007: Doctor Charles B. Purvis
2006: Actor Ossie Davis
2005: Songstress Ella Fitzgerald
2004: Educator Dr. Benjamin E. Mays
2003: Tuskegee Airman Gen. Daniel "Chappie" James, Jr.
2002: Baseball great Jackie Robinson
2001: Writer Langston Hughes
2000: Entertainer Sammy Davis, Jr.
1999: Detroit mayor Coleman A. Young
Ford Freedom Award Scholar
To recognize the living legends who inspire the next generation, we present the Ford Freedom Award Scholar to an African-American who has excelled on a national or international level in the field of the Ford Freedom Award Honoree.
Past Freedom Award Scholars have included the following individuals:
2007: Doctor Benjamin S. Carson
2006: Actor Morgan Freeman
2005: Vocal stylist Al Jarreau
2004: Entertainer Bill Cosby
2003: NASA astronaut Dr. Mae C. Jemison
2002: Baseball Hall of Fame inductee Reggie Jackson
2001: Poet Sonia Sanchez
2000: Entertainer Gregory Hines
1999: Former United Nations ambassador Andrew Young
