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Ford Sponsors Sojourner Truth Women’s Leadership Reception at National Museum of Women in the Arts

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Sojourner Truth Women’s Leadership Reception

Ford Fund on Thursday served as sponsor of the Sojourner Truth Women’s Leadership Reception, part of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 47th Annual Legislative Conference, which was held at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, D.C.

Among the highlights of the evening were the awarding of the Woman of Truth award to Dr. Mae Jemison and former United States Secretary of Labor Alexis Herman, the presentation of the Woman of the Year award to Californian congresswoman Maxine Waters, and a live performance from Grammy nominee Ledisi.

“Ford Fund and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference are thrilled to share in the celebration of three leaders who have paved the way for young women to reach their dreams,” said Pamela Alexander, Director of Community Development, Ford Motor Company Fund. “We are pleased to continue our partnership with the women of the Congressional Black Caucus to celebrate the Sojourner Truth Legacy Project at the Women’s Leadership Reception.”

The Woman of Truth award is presented to women who carry the torch for women’s rights activist and abolitionist Sojourner Truth. Dr. Jemison was honored for her innumerable contributions to the STEM fields and in recognition of the 25th anniversary of her becoming the first African American woman to travel into space as part of the crew of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Alexis Herman is considered a “hidden figure” in political history, having served as the 23rd Secretary of Labor under President Bill Clinton and currently serving as the co-chair of the Democratic National Committee’s Rules and Bylaws Committee.

Congresswoman Waters has served California in Congress since 1991, and made headlines earlier this year for famously reclaiming her time when Steve Mnuchin attempted to stonewall her during a House Financial Services Committee meeting. Waters took the occasion of her acceptance to remind attendees about the important role strong black women play in making history and making the world a better place.

Rep. Auntie Maxine Waters! Award recipient the Sojourner Truth Legacy Project Reception! #CBCFALC17

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