Congresswoman Wilson presented Congresswoman Carrie Meek with Miami-Dade Democratic Party’s Lifetime Civic Leadership Award at the First Annual Blue Gala hosted by the Miami-Dade Democratic Party. “I am honored to pay tribute to the legendary Honorable Carrie P. Meek, and I extend my sincerest congratulations to Congresswoman Meek receiving Miami-Dade County Democratic Party’s 2013 Lifetime Civic Leadership Award. “I and my fellow elected officials stand on her shoulders. She is a pioneer and trailblazer, who after 14 years in the Florida Legislature, became one of the first African Americans elected to represent Florida in Congress since Reconstruction. “Fearless and determined, she broke down barriers to improve the quality of life for Floridians and paved the way for more people like me, who also wanted to make a difference and serve their communities, their state and their country. “Congresswoman Carrie Meek, thank you so much for your service to our community, to our state, to our nation, and to the world,” said Congresswoman Wilson. Congressman Joe Kennedy was a special guest at the Blue Gala. Also receiving awards were MSNBC’s Ed Schultz who was presented the Progressive Champion Award; Senator Oscar Braynon, II received the Legislative Champion Award; and Representative David Richardson was presented with the Breaking Barriers Award. The gala was held Nov. 17, 2013 at The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Fla. Close to 400 people attended including elected officials, community activists, and leaders from the Democratic Party.
