ABOUT OUR HONOREES
We are shaping a truly memorable gala night on May 8th for
The Common Good.
Let’s celebrate a legend…
Sherry Lansing, Hollywood’s very special leading lady, the former Chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures will be honored for her extraordinary body of work with our American Spirit Award for Impactful Creative Expression.
Lansing has been a guiding force behind stories that defined a generation with films that have touched our hearts, challenged our perspectives, and provoked us to take action in the real world. While her filmography is long and impressive, we will recognize Lansing for films she shepherded to the big screen, including Forrest Gump, China Syndrome, Saving Private Ryan, Kramer vs Kramer, Braveheart, and Nine To Five, among others.
Let’s celebrate a powerhouse of journalism…
Ari Melber, the Emmy Award-winning host of The Beat on MSNBC, for his incisive analysis and commitment to truth with our American Spirit Award for Excellence in Journalism.
As a lawyer and journalist, Melber has masterfully blended legal expertise with sharp political commentary, making The Beat a must-watch for those seeking clarity in chaotic times. Through his relentless pursuit of facts, his incisive legal breakdowns, and his signature long-form interviews, he has exposed abuse of power at the highest levels—holding the powerful to account and bringing down some of the most brazen figures in American politics.
Let’s celebrate a legal giant and champion of democracy…
Laurence Tribe, the renowned constitutional scholar and professor, whose landmark legal scholarship has shaped constitutional law and guided generations of legal thinkers. He will be honored with our American Spirit Award for Thought Leadership.
A towering figure in American law, Tribe has forged legal thought for decades, mentoring Supreme Court justices, advising presidents, and defending democracy at critical moments. His voice has been a driving force in public debate, ensuring that the Constitution, the rule of law, and our norms and guardrails remain as steadfast safeguards for the people.
Let’s celebrate a trailblazer…
Debra Martin Chase, whose work has shaped conversations on history, justice, and the divides that define our society. She will be honored with our American Spirit Award for Impactful Creative Expression.
Chase has brought socially resonant stories to life, using film and theater to spark dialogue and deepen cultural understanding. We will recognize her for her powerful portfolio, including the gripping historical biopic Harriet, which tells the story of the courageous abolitionist and Underground Railroad leader Harriet Tubman; Tony Award-winning plays, Topdog/Underdog, a compelling exploration of brotherhood, race, and fate; and The Outsiders, a fresh stage adaptation of the classic novel about class divides and belonging.
