The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis announced Memphis-Shelby County Schools students Hannah Glenn, Jade Mitchell, and Ira Sharma as recipients of the 2023 Keeper of the Dream Award.
The Keeper of the Dream Award is granted to youth who exhibit outstanding dedication to social causes and committed to effecting change and transforming lives.
“These remarkable young individuals embody the spirit of the civil rights movement, standing as beacons of hope and catalysts for change in our community,” said National Civil Rights Museum President Dr. Russ Wigginton.
The three students earned the award through various community contributions and advocacies in Shelby County.
East High School senior Hannah Glenn started an initiative called “Sign Up to Vote” which inspired her peers to actively engage in the democratic process. Glenn also voluntarily contributed more than 200 hours to various local and national organizations.
Colonial Middle School student Jade Mitchell’s song “Memphis and Beyond,” which she wrote and performed with youth choir Perfecting Gifts, garnered widespread attention, and spread a positive message of love and hope in challenging times for the community.
White Station Hugh School senior Ira Sharma emerged as a prominent advocate for immigrant and women’s rights through her work in organizations like the Memphis Interfaith Coalition for Action and Hope (MICAH) Youth Council and Young Women Against Injustice. Sharma additionally works to foster cultural connections and assist immigrant and students who speak English as a second language.
Each student will receive a $500 prize, a one-year family membership to the National Civil Rights Museum, and two round-trip Southwest Airline tickets.
The award will be presented during the inaugural Freedom Award Student Forum event on October 19 at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church, which recognizes global trailblazers dedicated to the advancement of civil and human rights.
