I applaud the Marian Anderson Award selection panel for...

I applaud the Marian Anderson Award selection panel for identifying two outstanding individuals, Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis, as they exemplify the power of the artist to change the world. They were among the most vocal Americans in support of the early days of the civil rights movement. They used the power of their roles as critically acclaimed artists to effect change in society - in areas where change was the most needed.