By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
Last Sunday, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) presented the Alcee L. Hastings Civil Rights & Social Justice Leadership Award to Rev. Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor of New Mount Olive Baptist Church, recognizing his tremendous and varied contributions to the South Florida community.
The award, created in 2024 following the passing of the late Congressman Alcee L. Hastings, “honored his lifelong commitment to civil rights, social justice, and public service”.- Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz.
Hastings rose from humble beginnings in the segregated South to become Florida’s first African American federal judge and later a member of the historic 1992 class of the United States Congress. His commanding advocacy and moral conviction left an indelible imprint on Broward County and beyond.
Honoring Those Who Carry the Fight Forward
Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz established the award to recognize Floridians who demonstrate exceptional civic engagement in areas such as economic advancement, community activism, justice, education, spiritual outreach, and community impact.
Rev. Davidson’s leadership reflected that mission. As Senior Pastor of New Mount Olive Baptist Church, he advocated for economic empowerment by supporting Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurship, while also promoting literacy, mentorship, and cultural opportunities for students throughout the community.
Words from Those Who Knew Him Best
Jody Hastings, son of the late Congressman, reflected on the significance of the moment.
“My Dad would be very proud of all the recipients, who are truly graciously humble individuals. From the first Judge Ilona Holmes, then Rosalyn Frazier, Chief Executive Officer of Broward Community & Family Health Center, and now the Rev. Dr. Marcus D. Davidson. They all display the true characteristics of leadership and servitude. Dr. Davidson is stalwart in our community and exemplifies a magnanimous spirit of giving and compassion.”
Judge Ilona Holmes, the inaugural recipient of the award, welcomed Rev. Davidson into what she described as a growing fellowship of servant leaders.
“Yes, I was very fortunate to be the first recipient of the award. What I’ve done, I can’t compare to what the congressman did. But it’s set to honor folks who are still carrying on the fight and knowing that we’re struggling to keep the little gains that we’ve gotten in the past. So that’s why I’m here today to welcome him to the — I wanted to call it a sorority, ’cause my friend Sister Frazier got it last year, and I was there when she received the award. So I came to make him a part of our sorority. I guess he’ll break off and make it a fraternity soon.”
Evan J. Goldman, Esq., Executive Director of Public Affairs for the Jewish Federation of Broward, drew a parallel between Rev. Davidson’s ministry and the faith-driven activism that defined Congressman Hastings’ legacy.
“Pastor Dr. Marcus D. Davidson is worthy of the Alcee L. Hastings Civil Rights & Social Justice Award because his steadfast leadership, community advocacy, and commitment to equity embodied the spirit of justice and empowerment that the award honors. Pastor Dr. Davidson, like Congressman Hastings before him, exemplified a servant-leadership faith model where social action became the embodiment of scripture.”
A Humble Acceptance
Rev. Davidson accepted the honor with humility and resolve.
“I accepted it with sincere gratitude and humility. This recognition was not about me alone; it reflected a community grounded in faith, resilience, and a steady commitment to justice.
Congressman Hastings stood for courageous advocacy and moral conviction. To be connected to his legacy challenged and encouraged me at the same time. This award renewed my commitment to serve faithfully, to stand with those whose voices are too often overlooked, and to pursue equity with integrity, compassion, and steady hope for a more just society.”
Last Sunday’s ceremony not only celebrated Rev. Davidson’s work but also reaffirmed that the legacy of Congressman Alcee L. Hastings continued through leaders committed to justice, equity, and faith in action.
