African-American ‘giants’ more than meet Medal of Freedom standard

Rep. John Lewis, Maya Angelou and Bill Russell (AP Photo)

Rep. John Lewis, Maya Angelou and Bill Russell (AP Photo)

You may write me down in history
With your bitter, twisted lies,
You may trod me in the very dirt
But still, like dust, I’ll rise.

Collectively, Maya Angelou, John Lewis and Bill Russell represent the very best of the American spirit. They won their future — and created a better today — with steely determination, an abiding faith, uncommon courage and a burning desire to make America true to its promise.

Their life’s work prove that a better, brighter future does not just happen. It’s ours to create.

via The Grio