The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights

Letter from Dr. Height

Dear Colleagues and Friends:

Welcome!

We are united this evening at the largest gathering of the civil and human rights community – the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights Hubert H. Humphrey Civil Rights Award Dinner.  The Humphrey Award is given for "selfless and devoted service in the cause of equality," and honors the legacy of the former United States Vice President, Senator and civil rights pioneer.  Recipients are recognized for their outstanding contributions to the advancement of civil and human rights for all.

This year's celebration marks my 95th birthday, and for more than 74 years I have been proud to work alongside many with a passionate commitment to social justice and equality. Tonight I am proud to stand alongside this year's extraordinary honorees.  On behalf of our LCCR Executive Committee, I extend hearty congratulations and best wishes to former president Bill Clinton, prolific scholar Dr. John Hope Franklin, and veteran Major L. Tammy Duckworth.

Tonight's honorees provide the rubric by which we can measure our successes and failures as we move toward an equal and just society.  These individuals have made themselves accountable to the history of this country and the world - putting civil and human rights on the national and global agenda, within the halls of academia, and on the frontlines.  Our awardees mirror the principles that Hubert Humphrey stood for, and they are a true testament to his legacy.

Founded in 1950, LCCR is the oldest and largest civil and human rights coalition in the United States.  The coalition is as diverse as our nation and includes nearly 200 organizations representing persons of color, women, children, older Americans, individuals with disabilities, gays and lesbians, labor unions, major religious groups and civil liberties and human rights groups.  The work of our coalition is vital; working as one is the only way we can hope to ensure the rights of all Americans.

Tonight, I extend sincerest gratitude to our generous sponsors and the 2007 Dinner Committee whose contributions have made tonight's dinner possible.  I am particularly grateful to our Dinner chairs:  Kathryn Brown of Verizon, Cheryl Johnson of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, and Jack Krumholtz of Microsoft. 

Everyone present tonight has a role to play in advancing civil and human rights.  All of you have our utmost appreciation for your continued support and commitment as together we strive to achieve equality, equal opportunity and justice for all.

Gratefully,

Dorothy I. Height, Honorary Chair
Chairperson, LCCR
Chair and President Emeritus, National Council of Negro Women