THE MARCH ON AWARDS
The March On Awards were created to recognize leaders, across disciplines, whose commitment to the advancement of civil rights is unwavering. Through their actions, and with courage, they have ignited national conversations, compelled progress, and have used their platforms as instruments for social justice and cultural change. As foot soldiers in the fight against injustice everywhere, we honor their work, commitment, and sustained efforts to continue the march forward.
JOHN ROBERT LEWIS LIFETIME LEGACY AWARD
The John Robert Lewis Lifetime Legacy Award is presented annually to an individual whose life’s work has sought to advance the dignity of all humans, no matter their circumstance. Through grit, determination and, often, personal and physical sacrifice, they, like the Award’s namesake, have fought tirelessly on behalf of our better angels.
Awardees
2023
Reverend Al Sharpton
presented by Symone Sanders Townsend as the March On Lifetime Achievement Award
Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock
presented by Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley
2022
Irene Gandy
presented by Emilio Sosa
George C. Wolfe
presented by Jeffrey Wright
Congresswoman Barbara Lee
presented by Congressman Jim Clyburn
2021
Donors of Color Network
presented by Reggie Van Lee
Sam Pollard
presented by Judy Richardson
Congressman James Clyburn
presented by Lauren Underwood
2020
Southern Poverty Law Center
accepted by Margaret Huang (presented by Kerry Kennedy)
Congresswoman Maxine Waters
presented by Joy Reid
Congressman John Lewis
presented by Mayor Muriel Bowser posthumously and renamed this year in his honor
2019
- March On Award: Dr. Joyce Ladner (presented by Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton)
- March On Award: Peggy Wallace Kennedy (presented by Congressman John Lewis)
- March On Award: Congresswoman Terri Sewell (presented by Senator Doug Jones)
- John Robert Lewis Lifetime Legacy Award: Nikki Giovanni (presented by Dr. Johnetta Cole)
