The 10th Annual James Parks Morton Interfaith Awards dinner commenced on Monday, June 11, at Tribeca 360, honoring 2011 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Leymah Gbowee and philanthropist and filmmaker Abigail Disney. The evening began earlier than usual this year, with a 5 pm screening of the Ms. Disney’s documentary “Pray the Devil Back to Hell.” The film, which chronicles the remarkable story of the courageous Liberian women who came together to end a bloody civil war and bring peace to their shattered country, was attended by a majority of the gala guests, many of whom reported finding the film sobering and inspirational.
Following the film, guests gathered for a reception amidst a gorgeous collection of Liberian quilts, handmade by the women of Quageh, a Liberian quilting cooperative, in partnership with The Corporation for Economic Opportunity. Proceeds from sale of quilts purchased at the gala were dedicated to Quageh and ICNY.
The dinner, beginning at 7:30 pm, was attended by the honorees and about 350 Interfaith Center of New York supporters, including religious leaders from numerous faith communities through the city. The welcome was given by The Rev. Chloe Breyer (executive director of ICNY), followed by an interfaith blessing.
Serving as Master of Ceremonies was The Rev. Dr. Alfonso Wyatt, of The Greater Allen Cathedral of New York. The first speaker of the evening was Annie Rawlings, ICNY Director of Outreach and Program Administration, who introduced the audience to ICNY’s latest program, Reentry Family and Faith Circles of Support.
The award presentations were launched by The Very Reverend James Parks Morton himself, who introduced Leymah Gbowee by talking of her experiences in Liberia, and of the incredible courage and faith she exhibited when bringing Christian and Muslim women together to protest the civil war that was tearing their country apart.
William F. Baker, PhD., director of the Bernard L. Schwartz center for Media, Education and Public Policy at Fordham University, then presented the final award of the evening, to Abigail E. Disney. Ms. Disney
After the bestowal of awards, Tina Lear performed her song “Because of One,” which was inspired by Ms. Gbowee’s heroic actions in Liberia. Following her moving performance, Joseph James, president of “Prosperity for All” presented Ms. Gbowee and Ms. Disney with handmade quilts, each featuring the face of the awardee. Finally, Forces of Nature Dance Theatre performed for the honorees and audience, sharing dances inspired by contemporary dance, ballet, house, and hip-hop forms.
Photos from the event can be viewed here.
