The Columbus Foundation named Michelle Alexander, legal scholar, advocate, civil rights attorney, and author of the groundbreaking book, The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, the 2017 winner of The Spirit of Columbus Award. The announcement was made at a civic celebration held yesterday at the Foundation.
The Spirit of Columbus Award, affectionately known as the “Jerries” in honor of aviatrix Jerrie Mock, recognizes individuals who have exhibited exemplary community spirit through their accomplishments.
“Michelle is being presented The Spirit of Columbus Award for igniting a national movement that is inspiring organizations and individuals to take constructive action on criminal justice reform,” said Douglas F. Kridler, President and CEO of The Columbus Foundation. “Her call for love and understanding in the face of systemic bias is hugely inspiring and we are proud she and her family call Columbus home.”
Read more about Michelle Alexander and the 2017 Spirit of Columbus Award.
The Columbus Foundation is working to capture The Spirit of Columbus through images that showcase the determination, dedication, and commitment of people in our smart + open community. Be sure to check out columbusfoundation.org and follow along on Facebook as we continue to celebrate The Spirit of Columbus through photography. You can also tune in on Instagram.