Rights Night 2009

UUSC to Honor Mel King at 2009 Rights Night

Mel King will be honored with the 2009 UUSC Eleanor Roosevelt Award at UUSC's annual Rights Night event, on December 10. The public is invited to attend — and join in the learning and the celebration.

King has been a leader on community issues for more than fifty years. He has served as a adjunct professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, state representative, candidate for mayor of Boston, candidate for U.S. Congress, and, above all, a community organizer.

Born in Boston's South End, King has devoted his life to organizing and advocacy for antipoverty and urban renewal causes in underserved Boston communities, most recently through the Mel King Institute for Community Building.

King's nomination letter describes him in this way:

^{"He’s been called a crusader, educator, politician, community organizer, social entrepreneur, author, and technology buff, but at heart he’s an unassuming and untiring human rights activist.}

The UUSC Eleanor Roosevelt Award honors individuals who have in their lifetime demonstrated a resolve to confront unjust power structures and challenge oppressive policies. In addition, the honoree’s own humanity must be inextricably linked with the dignity and worth of those on whose behalf they advocate. These criteria combine the humanity and determination of Eleanor Roosevelt and the mission of UUSC.

Join us in celebrating this great American educator and human rights defender.

When:

Thursday, December 10, 2009, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Where:

The Media Arts Center, Roxbury Community College
1234 Columbus Avenue
Roxbury, Mass.

The Rights Night celebration is free and open to the public. Reservations are recommended to ensure seating. RSVP to Cristin Martineau at rsvp@uusc.org or 617-301-4381 by December 8.