And the Award Goes to….

Now in its eighth year, the March on Washington Film Festival has an all-virtual line-up for the first time ever, highlighting the events and heroes of the Civil Rights Movement. This year’s program will feature a series of film screenings, workshops, panel discussions and live performances centered on the theme “Who Tells The Story?” and will highlight thought-leaders and influencers from around the world. To kick-off the Film Festival, there will be an Opening Night Awards Gala on Monday, September 21, which will include honorees from a select class of visionary leaders and organizations in the fight for civil rights.

This year, the Lifetime Legacy Award, given to an individual who has committed their life's work to the struggle for civil rights, will be presented posthumously and renamed in honor of the late Congressman John Lewis, whose mantra of getting into "Good Trouble" inspired a generation of leaders. 

The March On Awards, created to recognize leaders and organizations whose commitment to the advancement of civil rights and social justice is unparalleled, will be presented to Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Southern Poverty Law Center’s President and CEO Margaret Huang. 

Presenters include MSNBC’s Joy Reid, RFK Center’s Kerry Kennedy, and DC Mayor Muriel Bowser. Musical tributes will be performed by country artist Jamey Johnson, blues musician Keb’ Mo’, jazz harmonicist Frederic Yonnet, guitarist Robert Randolph, and gospel singer Angie Primm. Alvin Ailey’s resident choreographer, Jamar Roberts, will also present an original work in honor of Mr. Lewis.

Last year, MOWFF’s inaugural gala honored Woman of the Movement, including Congresswoman Terri Sewell (presented by Sen. Doug Jones), Dr. Joyce Ladner (presented by Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton), and Peggy Wallace Kennedy (presented by Rep. John Lewis) and the Lifetime Legacy Award honoree was Nikki Giovanni (presented by Dr. Johnetta Cole).  

To learn more, visit: https://www.marchonwashingtonfilmfestival.org/2020-gala.