The Blockson Collection in partnership with the Leon H. Sullivan Charitable Trust and the City of Philadelphia recognize and celebrate Rev. Dr. Leon H. Sullivan’s 100th Birthday with events and activities in his honor.  
 
Born on October 16, 1922, Rev. Dr. Leon H. Sullivan was a civil rights and social justice leader who advocated for social and economic equity through job training, entrepreneurial training, self-help initiatives, investing in Black owned businesses, community and housing development, and supporting businesses that employed Black people. Whether Rev. Dr. Leon Sullivan was preaching from the pulpit of Zion Baptist Church in Philadelphia, or speaking at the African Summit in Senegal, he provided tools to help people overcome poverty and oppression.  

In his lifetime, he was the recipient of numerous awards including The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award that the American government can give, by President George H. W. Bush as well as The Eleanor Roosevelt Award for Human Rights by President Bill Clinton. He was also the first African American elected to the General Motors Board of Directors. His impact was felt in Philadelphia, across the country, and around the world. 
 
This program is presented in partnership with the Charles L. Blockson Collection of African-Americana and the African Diaspora at Penn State Special Collections Library. 

This program will be presented via Zoom. On the day of the program, use this link to join:

https://temple.zoom.us/j/97018320289

Our programs are geared toward a general audience and are open to all, including Temple students, faculty, staff, alumni, neighbors, and friends. Registration is encouraged.