NAACP to Honor Henry Louis Gates, Jr. with Spingarn Medal at 115th National Convention

LAS VEGAS – Today, the NAACP, in collaboration with media partner PBS Vegas, announced esteemed historian and literary scholar Henry Louis Gates, Jr. as the 2024 Spingarn medal recipient – the Association’s highest honor. The Spingarn Award dinner will take place at the upcoming 115th NAACP National Convention taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada.

“It is an honor to bring Professor Gates back to our national convention this year as the Spingarn Medal recipient,” said Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO. “His profound impact on the Black community cannot be understated and makes him a truly worthy individual to receive this highest distinction. Professor Gates’ contributions to the literary world and his endearing commitment to Black history will continue to inspire generations to come. 

The NAACP Spingarn Medal acknowledges the highest or noblest achievement by a living African American in any honorable field during the preceding year or years. Professor Gates currently serves as the Director of the Hutchins Center for African & African American Research at Harvard University. Additionally, Professor Gates has published numerous books, produced and hosted an array of Emmy nominated documentary films, and aired the 10th season of his groundbreaking genealogy series ‘Finding Your Roots’ on PBS.

For more information on the 115th NAACP National Convention, visit our website.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.