Los Angeles, CA (May 4, 2007) - The single belief that guides Bernard and Shirley Kinsey is that “to whom much is given, much is required.” As a result, the Kinsey’s have dedicated their lives to preserving African American history and creating educational opportunities for future generations. Under the theme, “Protecting Our Civil Rights,” leaders from the education, social, economic, legal and political sectors will be presented awards in dedication of their talents, time and energy to making a difference.

Bernard and Shirley are known for their collection of 19th and 20th Century African American Art, and historical documents. “The Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey” are presently on a two year national tour. Throughout their 40 year marriage, the couple has helped numerous people and organizations. The College Bound Program has benefited from their leadership with over a million dollars for scholarships, while funding the Bernard and Shirley Kinsey Scholarship. In addition, their fundraising efforts raised over $125,000 for the Rosa Parks Foundation.

The Kinsey’s will be honored as recipients of the President’s Award and are among six individuals to be recognized by the Los Angeles NAACP for their talents, time and energy to making a difference on Thursday, May 17 at the 2007 Annual Roy Wilkins Freedom Fund Awards Gala.

Festivities will take place at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, 506 South Grand Ave. in Los Angeles with a reception at 5:45 p.m., followed by the dinner and program at 7:00 p.m.

Under the theme “Protecting Our Civil Rights” the local branch will also honor United States District Judge for the Central District of California, Judge Terry J. Hatter (Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr. Journey To Justice Award); newspaper industry veteran and CEO/Publisher of Our Weekly newspaper, Natalie Cole (Ida B. Wells Medal of Courage Award); the first African American elected to office in the city of Culver City, Saundra Davis, Culver City School Board (Emerging Leadership Award); and 20 year Los Angeles NAACP member and retired educator, Addie Arbor (Volunteer of the Year Award).

Yvonne B. Burke who is serving her fourth four-year term as Los Angeles County Supervisor for the Second District, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award

During the past 93 years, the Los Angeles Branch has fought against discrimination and continues to support the programs and policies of the NAACP with aggressive action at the local level. In addition to ongoing initiatives in the areas of civil rights, social and political equality, local priorities revolve around education, economic development and health.

The NAACP is the oldest and largest organization with a focus on civil rights for people of color. For additional information about the Roy Wilkins Freedom Fund Awards Gala, call (323) 857-0869 or the L.A. NAACP office at (323) 296-2630.