LOS ANGELES, CA -- SCLC-SC, a nonprofit, non-sectarian, inter-faith, advocacy organization committed to nonviolent action for social, economic, and political justice, is proud to announce that Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., California Secretary of State, will be the keynote speaker and the recipient of the Rosa Parks Humanitarian Award at the 2024 MLK Legacy Gala & Awards. The event will take place on Sunday, January 14 at 5:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, located at 6101 W Century Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045.

The event will also honor several distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions to justice and equality:
 

The presence of Dr. Weber as the keynote speaker at the 2024 MLK Legacy Gala & Awards is of great significance. As a prominent figure in politics and civil rights, Dr. Weber's commitment to justice and equality aligns perfectly with the mission of SCLC-SC. Her presence not only highlights the importance of this event but also exemplifies the collaborative efforts to achieve social, economic, and political justice.

According to Rev. James M. Lawson, Emeritus of SCLC-SC, "We are honored to have such esteemed individuals as Dr. Weber and the slate of impressive honorees this evening. I am especially proud to present the new award named in my honor to Dr. Mark and Avis Thomas. Two individuals fighting as one. A modern example of a lifetime of battles won that yielded progressive transformative change for justice and equality for the most marginalized. I salute all of the awardees their dedication to justice and equality is an inspiration to us all."

"We are actively working across all ages and genders," states Pastor William D. Smart, President and CEO of SCLC-SC. "The Women of SCLC-SC are fighting medical apartheid, building a wonderful and inclusive community and promoting culture and the arts. Since 2013, our Hurting and Hungry Program is a diverse effort deeply involved in the distribution of food to those who have been affected by hunger and poverty. The SCLC-SC Young Dreamers is a multiracial and religiously diverse youth organization devoted to bridging communities through friendship, service, and activism. We are proud to partner with more that fifteen diverse organizations and coalitions across the southland."

For tickets to the gala and more information about SCLC-SC and its mission, visit https://www.sclc-sc.org/events/sclc-sc-53rd-mlk-annual-legacy-festival-celebration.

About SCLC-SC

SCLC-SC is dedicated to nonviolent action to address social, economic, and political injustices. As one of the many localized chapters and affiliates of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, we work in communities across the country to implement national programs, including voter registration, education improvement, and direct action against injustice. Our organization aims to advocate for those on the margins of society and continue Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s vision of a united and equitable nation. For more information, visit www.sclc-sc.org.