Private Reception for “Freedom’s Sisters” Launch Showcases Los Angeles’ Community Leaders

Sept. 22, 2011 - PRLog -- LOS ANGELES, CA. September 22, 2011 — More than 500 guests were captivated by the words of Dr. Sonia Sanchez and Myrlie Evers-Williams as they gave personal testimonies and reflections about their role in the civil rights movement at the invitation-only preview for Freedom’s Sisters, an interactive exhibit at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles, California. Museum director Liebe Geft introduced 43 local women who exemplified the same courage and commitment in the Los Angeles community as Freedom's Sisters, including sculptor Artis Lane, artist Phoebe Beasley and actress/activist Denise Nichols.

The Insider’s host Kevin Frazier and actress Holly Robinson Peete, who is also a Freedom’s Sister, co-emceed the event and songstress Denise Williams serenaded the crowd with her rendition of “Black Butterfly” as a tribute. Special recognition was also given to Frazier and actors Blair Underwood and James Pickens for their continued support of the Freedom’s Sisters movement. The event concluded with an original poem by Sanchez, aptly titled “Thunder of Angels.”

"The women honored in Freedom's Sisters are an inspiration to people of all ages and backgrounds" said Pamela Alexander, director, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. "Ford is proud to fund this national exhibition celebrating women who have truly changed our country and our world.”

In addition to the exhibition, an essay contest is open to students in 4th-8th grade who visit the exhibit and answer the question: “Who is your favorite Freedom’s Sister and why? What are you doing to continue her legacy?” Ford Motor Company will award $10,000 in U.S. savings bonds to winning entries. The contest deadline is November 21, 2011.

The exhibit showcases twenty extraordinary African American women, invited visitors to bear witness to some of the most important moments in our nation’s history. It will remain at The Museum of Tolerance through January 8th, 2012.

For more information on the Freedom's Sisters exhibition, visit http://www.museumoftolerance.com/ or for interviews with Dr. Sonia Sanchez or Myrlie Evers-Williams call (248) 423-9205.