Cape Girardeau native to be honored at NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner in St. Louis County

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. (KBSI) — A Cape Girardeau native will be recognized at the NAACP St. Louis County Branch 89th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner.

Patricia Washington will receive the Excellence in Investigative Journalism and Civic Accountability Award during the event, scheduled for June 6 at the St. Louis Airport Marriott Hotel.

Washington shared on social media that she was “excited and humbled” to be among this year’s honorees.

The annual dinner is the organization’s largest fundraiser and supports scholarships and programs focused on civil rights, education and community advancement.

This year’s theme, “For Such a Time as This: Leadership Today, Tomorrow, and Always,” highlights the importance of leadership in advancing equity and social justice, organizers said.

Other honorees include Gwen Moore and Vivian Gibson, Lynne Jackson, Precious Barry, Jonathan Pulphus, Girlz 4 Life and Jamie Saunders, Girls Inc. and Cheryl Jones, and Gwen Reed, who will receive a posthumous award.

Officials said proceeds from the event will support programs aimed at promoting human rights and equality.