Photo Johnny Nunez / nubuzzphoto.com
On May 20, Simmons was appointed a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador to raise awareness of global slavery. Simmons was appointed on the same day as the United Nations’ official launch of the Trust Fund for the Permanent Memorial to Honor the Victims of Slavery and the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. The memorial is expected to cost US$3.5 million and be completed in 2012.
“In recognizing the past, we understand the stakes in ensuring that something as devastating to the human condition as the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, will never happen again,’’ said Simmons.
“My life’s commitment is to be of service to the empowerment of young people living in struggle, who undoubtedly have been affected by this legacy. I look to the future with inspiration and faith as we work every day to bring freedom and equality to all young people around the world.”
Since his induction, Russell has not ceased in his pursuit of slavery awareness. His efforts have reached the U.S. Senate, which unanimously agreed to apologize for slavery and segregation on June 19. This historical resolution is the first official statement to acknowledge responsibility for slavery and segregation. The following day, Russell addressed the Senate’s actions on his Huffington Post blog.
Chic Today recently caught up with Russell, who explained how the African American community has progressed and why advancement is possible.
“If you remember, most of the Congressman, the black caucus members and Senators, they didn’t have this vision [of progress]…They just thought, well America hasn’t evolved to this place yet. But then the young community, they shifted a lot and they believed in this opportunity.”
With role models like Simmons, youth are in a powerful position to demand and create a difference for future generations. As Simmons concluded, “Let the healing continue.”
