David Kellum, a long-time member of the Chicago Baha'i community and civil rights leader, dedicated his life to inspiring young people and improving relations between the races.

David KellumTo honor those achievements, the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States presents an award in his name to honor individuals or organizations who "represent positive role models for youth of all races and who contribute outstanding lasting service to the community."

In 2007 the 22nd David Kellum Awards were presented to Geoffrey Canada, president of the Harlem Children's Zone, and to David Feiner and Laura Wiley, founders and directors of the Chicago-based Albany Park Theater Project.

Since 1990, Mr. Canada has been president and CEO of the Harlem Children's Zone , a not-for-profit organization founded in 1970 to enhance the quality of life for children and families in New York City's impoverished Harlem neighborhood. Under Mr. Canada's direction, the Children's Zone has become a nationally recognized model for community-rebuilding projects.

The Albany Park Theater Project is a multiethnic ensemble of teenagers who create original performance works from the real-life stories of those who live in the immigrant, working-class neighborhood. The President's Commission on the Arts and the Humanities has twice recognized APTP for excellence in promoting youth development through the arts.

David Kellum (1903-1981)
Born in Greenville, Miss., Mr. Kellum is best known for being an editor at the Chicago Defender and a founder, director and grand marshal of the famous Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic. Started in 1929 by the Defender, the event, held on the second Saturday in August, has attracted more than 50 million children and their families throughout the United States for a day of community and celebration of African-American togetherness.

Children belonging to the Bud Billiken Club were taught that they should be honest and trustworthy, obey their parents and respect one another. A cartoon character, Bud Billiken, taught them how. Through a pen-pal program with children in Africa, South America, Europe and the Middle East the Billiken club helped chip away at the wall of segregation that had separated these children.

Related Items:

• List of past recipients of the David Kellum Awards
• View a video on the life of David Kellum