Unity First, a Springfield-based online network devoted to diversity, honored Springfield itself at its annual Common Ground Inclusion Awards held at the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History.
SPRINGFIELD - Just as the tornadoes of June 1 haven't stopped the citizens of Western Massachusetts from moving forward, the rain didn't stop the community from turning out to support the dozens of local notables honored by Unity First on Saturday.
Unity First, a Springfield-based online network devoted to diversity, honored Springfield itself at its annual Common Ground Inclusion Awards held at the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History.
"One thing we have learned from everything that has happened recently is that we are strong and resilient, and we will together move past this terrible time," said Denise R. Jordan, chief of staff for Mayor Domenic Sarno. "As the first African American chief of staff to the mayor's office, the biggest message I can share with the youth is to never allow anyone to define you. Decide who you want to be, set goals and become that person."
Jordan's message of hope was just one of many delivered to an audience as diverse as the city itself. Dozens of people from all walks of life and ethnic backgrounds were honored for their achievements and efforts to uplift the community while leading by example.
LuJuana D. Hood, director of the Pan-African Historical Museum USA housed in Springfield’s Tower Square, received a Legacy of Leadership award on Saturday. She said that through engaging the youth at an early age, the future is insured.
"This is a city with an African American community of strength and hope," Hood said. "And the hope is that our youth will pick up where we leave off and build this city a better tomorrow. When you understand where you come from, your history, you can break down any barrier."
Bobbie Lee Hollins, a city resident who didn't learn how to read until she was 30 years old, was honored with the Achievement Award for her determination to better herself and her children.
She raised two young men who were able to rise above all obstacles in their path and earn degrees from reputable institutions of higher learning.
Amy S. Hughes taught French for 27 years at the MacDuffie School in Springfield and served on its Board of Trustees for six years. She and her late husband Robert H. Hughes were also honored with the Legacy of Leadership award.
"I am thankful to my grandparents, parents and a few professors along the way for opening me up to diversity at a young age," Hughes said. "Diversity is extremely important. When we all work together, we can accomplish amazing things."
Springfield City Council President Jose F. Tosado's words echoed Hughes' sentiments, as he reflected on the community that helped raise him.
"My family came to Springfield 55 years ago and my father worked 18-hour days to support us nine kids, who all ended up going to college," Tosado said. "We had a lot of neighbors that would watch over us and if we did something wrong, they would discipline us, and it made a real difference. I'm truly thankful for that."
Tosado, who is the first Puerto Rican to be elected to the city council at large, credits the people who fought for equality in America and his family and community for allowing him to serve them in the capacity he does.
Janine Fondon, the president and CEO of UnityFirst.com, said the award ceremony marks the group's appreciation for and salute to a wide range of contributors to Springfield's past, present and future.
"The list only allows highlights of the rich history of the region so over the years, we hope to recognize and feature more history makers," Fondon said. "We also acknowledge those who are making a way for the city to bounce back from the devastating tornado. Above all, this event documents our collective commitment to shaping the future of Springfield and the region."
For more information about the Common Ground Inclusion Awards or Unity first, visit www.unityfirst.com.