Today marks the 100th birthday of author, actor, and activist, Ossie Davis. He was a champion for human rights and participated in meaningful acts throughout his lifetime with a specific focus on the transformation of lives. Whether it was on a Broadway stage, the big screen or at a rally for civil rights, he remained engaged and committed to effect change.
Throughout this year, we will celebrate and remember the work, words, and legacy of Ossie Davis.
Here are a few key moments from the life and legacy of
Ossie Davis
· American film, television & Broadway actor, director, playwright, author, and civil rights activist.
· Married legendary actress Ruby Dee in 1948.
· Master of Ceremony (along with his wife, Ruby Dee) for the 1963 March on Washington.
· Noted and credited with furthering opportunities on stage and screen for subsequent generations of Black artists.
· Eulogized Malcolm X, supported Martin Luther King, Jr. and A. Philip Randolph, and was mentored by Paul Roberson and W.E.B. DuBois.
· Attended Howard University (DC) for 3 years after which he pursued a writing career and studied drama. Mr. Davis received an honorary Doctorate of Humanities from Howard University in 1973.
· The United Negro College Fund manages the Ossie Davis Scholars Program.
· Mr. Davis received many honors and citations, including the N.Y. Urban League Frederick Douglass Award, the NAACP Image Award, the National Medal of Arts, the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award and a Grammy. In December 2004, Mr. Davis and Ms. Dee were recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors.
WE SALUTE OUR NATIONAL TREASURE!
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