In a historic ceremony on Thursday, President Joe Biden awarded Congressman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., with the prestigious Presidential Citizens Medal, recognizing his exceptional contributions to American democracy over his more than 30-year tenure in Congress. The award comes just days before the end of Biden’s term on Jan. 20.
Thompson, who is also an alumnus of Jackson State University and Tougaloo College, is widely acknowledged for his leadership as the first Black chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Jan. 6 House Select Committee. His work has earned him praise not only from peers but also from colleagues who highlight his lifelong commitment to civil rights and voting access.
“Long before he was the [Jan. 6] Select Committee chairman and chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, Congressman Thompson fought for voting rights in Mississippi in the 1960s,” Hope Goins, a long-time staffer for Thompson told theGrio. She emphasized that Thompson’s early activism, which included working alongside civil rights icon Fannie Lou Hamer, shaped his deep understanding of democracy as an inclusive process.
Thompson’s Unwavering Commitment
Thompson expressed gratitude for being recognized: “I have had an unwavering commitment to upholding the Constitution and defending democracy. Throughout my nearly six decades as a public servant, whether on the local or federal level, I have worked to ensure that democratic principles work for all Americans, not just a select few.”
His colleagues have echoed this sentiment, commending Thompson’s efforts to ensure that all Americans, particularly marginalized communities, have a voice in the democratic process.
Thompson’s legacy includes not only his influential roles on congressional committees but also his long-standing fight against racial oppression in Mississippi. His partnership with civil rights leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. exemplifies his dedication to social justice.
Thompson’s impact inspires a new generation of public servants committed to equity and inclusion across all facets of society.