NAACP celebrates 100 year anniversary in 2009. The centennial celebration kicks off with the 40TH NAACP Image Awards that broadcasts live from Los Angeles' historic Shrine Auditorium Thursday, Feb. 12 on FOX.
Nobel Peace Prize Laureates Former Vice President Al Gore and Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai will be awarded the NAACP Chairman's Award during the special. The Chairman's Award, chosen by NAACP Board Chairman Julian Bond, is bestowed in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service.
"I am very proud to recognize Former Vice President Gore and Dr. Maathai for their substantial efforts in environmental awareness, sustainable development and peace," Bond sai
d. "Their courageous and historic accomplishments have benefited not only current but future generations, and they clearly reflect the values that we have so valiantly fought for over the past century.""The NAACP has served as a beacon, advancing civil rights to the benefit of all Americans. I am so honored to be a part of this historic, centennial celebration. The Image Awards are made all the more special because I am joined by my friend and colleague, Dr. Wangari Maathai," Commented Al Gore.
Prof. Maathai states: "I am deeply honored and privileged to share this award with my fr
iend and colleague in environmental work, former Vice President Al Gore. I am especially honored to be receiving this award from the NAACP an organization that since 1910 has been working tirelessly for the dignity and humanity of ethnic minorities, especially focusing on social and economic equality. The election of President-elect Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States of America is a testament to your mission. As I receive this award I congratulate and thank you for your vision and commitment to the cause of human dignity."Click here for the full NAACP press release.
