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Ella Fitzgerald to receive 2005
Ford Freedom Award
 Ella Fitzgerald’s remarkable
artistry and incomparable vocal delivery have touched and inspired generations
of Americans. She recorded over 200 albums, around
2,000 songs, sold over 40 million records and received 13 Grammy
awards in her remarkable lifetime. In May 2005, Ella will be commemorated
with
the 2005 Ford Freedom Award which recognizes African American
who have made positive contributions that promote lasting and positive
change.
“The First Lady of Song” achieved so much in her lifetime that it is only fitting
that her amazing her work is commended. Her music and other accomplishments continue
to touch and influence lives all over the world. She will be posthumously honored
with
a
brass
nameplate, an installation ceremony, gala dinner and lecture.
In addition, Ella’s name will be added to the museum’s Ring of Genealogy. The sacred Ring of Genealogy pays homage to African Americans with a rich heritage and legacy of accomplishments in various disciplines. The display is a focal point in the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, located on the museum’s first floor Rotunda for all to view and acknowledge.
There will be an additional, yet to be named honoree recognized at the ceremony who will serve as the Ford Freedom Award Scholar. This individual stands as a living legacy of Ella; someone who has, in their own way, carried forth Ella’s ideals and furthered her achievements for a new generation.
The awards ceremony will be broadcast on Detroit ABC affiliate WXYZ-TV and will air twice. The program will consist of interviews with family members, close friends, former colleagues and celebrities. Interviews will take place in various cities to capture the true history of the illustrious jazz singer and humanitarian and to show how individuals all over the country, and the world, have been affected by her contributions.
The Ford Freedom Awards Program began in 1999 as collaboration between the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and the Ford Motor Company. The program’s purpose is to recognize individuals whose achievements bring African Americans, and the world as a whole, lasting and positive change. The award celebrates freedom and accomplishments over tremendous odds. Two individuals are honored each year, one living and one deceased. Past award recipients include Sammy Davis, Jr., Langston Hughes and CMG client Jackie Robinson.
Click
here to learn more about the Ford Freedom Award.
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