2025 ICRCM Gala Salutes Hon. Mickey Michaux and Five Other Civil Rights Trailblazers
GREENSBORO, NC — Civil rights legend and longtime North Carolina lawmaker The Honorable Henry “Mickey” Michaux Jr. was honored with the Alston/Jones International Civil and Human Rights Award at the 2025 International Civil Rights Center & Museum (ICRCM) Annual Gala. Held at the Joseph S. Koury Convention Center in Greensboro on Saturday, July 19, the sold-out gala marked the 65th anniversary of the conclusion of the historic Greensboro Sit-In Movement.
This year’s event celebrated six distinguished honorees whose contributions span generations, geographic boundaries, and spheres of influence — all united by a common commitment to justice, equity, and service. Michaux’s powerful legacy was the highlight of the evening, but each award recipient received a heartfelt tribute for their impact.
Alston/Jones International Civil & Human Rights Award
The Hon. Henry “Mickey” Michaux Jr.
A towering figure in civil rights and public service, Mickey Michaux was recognized for his decades-long dedication to justice, equality, and representation. As a civil rights activist, former legislator, and the first Black U.S. Attorney in the South, Michaux’s groundbreaking career has shaped policy and inspired generations. His work with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., his 40-year tenure in the North Carolina General Assembly, and his unwavering advocacy for education and economic access were centerpieces of his tribute.
Trailblazer Award
The Hon. Keisha Lance Bottoms
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms was honored for her transformative leadership and barrier-breaking achievements. As the first woman to serve in all three branches of Atlanta’s city government, Bottoms became a national voice on civil rights, affordable housing, and public engagement. After her mayoral term, she served as Senior Advisor to President Joe Biden, leading outreach across communities, including African Americans, LGBTQ+ populations, and people with disabilities.
Unsung Hero Award
Claudette Colvin
Before Rosa Parks, there was Claudette Colvin. At just 15 years old, Colvin defied bus segregation laws in Montgomery, Alabama, and became a pivotal figure in the Browder v. Gayle Supreme Court case that ended bus segregation. Often overlooked in mainstream narratives, Colvin’s courageous stand and legal contributions have finally gained the recognition they deserve. The Unsung Hero Award spotlighted her as a lifelong educator and advocate for justice.
Lifetime Community Service Award
The Hon. Dr. Margaret Bourdeaux Arbuckle
A Greensboro icon, Dr. Margaret Arbuckle has dedicated more than five decades to education, early childhood advocacy, and civic reform. From serving on the Guilford County Board of Commissioners to leading the Guilford Education Alliance and UNCG’s Center for Youth, Family, and Community Partnerships, Dr. Arbuckle has championed systemic change for children and families across the region.
Keeper of the Flame Award
The Hon. Cyril Jefferson
At just 31, High Point Mayor Cyril Jefferson became High Point’s youngest-ever mayoral candidate and a force for equity-driven leadership. As a city councilman and nonprofit leader, Jefferson launched transformative initiatives, including a $40 million housing impact fund and a youth-focused civic engagement platform. His deep ties to the community, vision for an inclusive High Point, and background in education earned him the museum’s Keeper of the Flame Award.
Sit-In Participant Award
VonDeleath Kersey
VonDeleath Kersey was one of the many Bennett College students whose actions fueled the 1960 sit-in movement. A proud activist and lifelong educator, Kersey helped organize voter drives, church-based activism, and anti-segregation efforts both in North Carolina and later in Pennsylvania. Her story underscores the collective courage of women who risked everything to demand dignity at the lunch counters—and beyond.
Program Highlights
The program featured moving musical selections from vocalist Syndee Winters, as well as a stirring rendition of the Black National Anthem by Julian Kennedy of 1aChord & the True Foundation Choir. Museum co-founders Melvin “Skip” Alston and Earl Jones offered reflections on the significance of the Sit-In Movement and the museum’s continued mission to educate and inspire.
As the 2025 Gala concluded, guests left inspired by the stories of those who’ve come before and the leaders forging today’s paths to justice. Each honoree stood as a living reminder that the flame of the movement burns on — boldly, brightly, and unrelentingly.
Photos: Ivan Saul Cutler/Carolina Peacemaker