Apple CEO Tim Cook to receive 2018 Human Rights Award by Birmingham Metro Southern Christian Leadership Conference

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Birmingham, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. civil rights, SCLC
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Photo via history.com.

“I have a dream.”

This infamous quote has captivated the world since it was first stated in 1963 by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Now, as part of its observance of the 50th anniversary of King’s assassination, the Birmingham Metro Southern Christian Leadership Conference is hosting their annual Keeper of the Dream Awards Banquet on April 4. This year, the organization will honor Apple CEO Tim Cook with its 2018 Human Rights Award.

What is the SCLC?

Since its inception in 1957, the SCLC has provided the Birmingham-Jefferson county community, and the state of Alabama, with 55 years of uninterrupted services. During this time, it has become one of the nation’s most respected civil rights organizations.

What is the Human Rights Award?

This award recognizes those individuals who have continued the legacy of the SCLC’s founding president, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who worked tirelessly to advance human and civil rights.

Birmingham, Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, Apple
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple. Photo via charitybuzz.com.
Who is Tim Cook?

Tim Cook was born in Mobile, Alabama, and graduated from Auburn University; he has led Apple since 2011. Tim is a prominent advocate for equality, including safe and fair conditions in the workplace, and has frequently cited Dr. King as a major influence upon his life and beliefs.

Also to commemorate the 50th anniversary of King’s assassination, the SCLC is hosting a student symposium, which will be held at the Sixth Avenue Baptist Church in Birmingham. The symposium will provide students the opportunity to hear form local and national voices in hopes of inspiring and educating the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Tim will be one of several business leaders participating in the symposium, and will address local high school and college students about human and civil rights, education and innovation.

The symposium will also feature a panel discussion with these area business leaders:

  • Ivan Holloway, executive direction of Urban Impact Inc.
  • Sara Wood, Outreach Paralegal at Southern Poverty Law Center
  • Sherrell Dorsey, journalist and founder of ThePLUG
  • Adrienne Starks, founder and CEO of STREAM Innovations
  • Abby Guerin, direction of workforce development at Innovate Birmingham
  • Greg Willis, founder and CEO of Bridgegate
Birmingham, 16th Street Baptist Church, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., civil rights
16th Street Baptist Church. Photo via gospelherald.com.

Want to learn more about Keeper of the Dream events? Find it here.

To purchase tickets to the Keeper of the Dream Awards banquet, click here.

Patience Itson
Patience Itson
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