Congratulations Russell Simmons!
NAACP cites Russell Simmons' work in Black Jewish relations with 2009 NAACP Vanguard Award

On Thursday, February 12th, The Foundation for Ethnic Understanding (FFEU) Chairman Russell Simmons received the 2009 NAACP Vanguard Award at the 40th NAACP Image Awards broadcast live from Los Angeles on FOX.

The NAACP Vanguard Award is presented to an individual whose groundbreaking work increases understanding of racial and social issues. "Russell is deserving of this prestigious award because he has used the power of hip-hop to reach and inspire our nation's youth," said NAACP Image Awards Chairperson Clayola Brown. "Combined with his ongoing commitment to strengthening relations between ethnic communities and his generous charitable spirit, Russell was a natural choice to receive this honor."

Rabbi Marc Schneier, FFEU President said, "We are profoundly grateful for this historic recognition of our chairman's leadership. Russell continues to be a source of guidance and inspiration in his noble service to greater humankind."

Russell's longstanding commitment to the FFEU's work in Black Jewish relations has made us the national address for this historic alliance. It was Russell's groundbreaking vision that launched FFEU's successful initiatives in Muslim Jewish relations. The widespread enthusiasm from the Weekend of Twinning of mosques and synagogues across North America will now be brought this coming year across the Atlantic to Europe.

Watch Part I of Russell Simmons at the 40th NAACP Image Awards

Watch Part II of Russell Simmons at the 40th NAACP Image Awards

JTA: NAACP cites impresario’s black-Jewish work