The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an award bestowed by the president of the United States to recognize people who have made "an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors." We have created this petition in order to generate sponsorship for the consideration of Dr. Mays for the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Dr. Mays was the ideologist who envisioned and birthed the modern civil rights movement. He is, by all accounts, Dr. King's mentor and main influence. However, he has largely been forgotten by history.  

An educator and staunch supporter of equality, Dr. Mays was a giant and a pioneer. He is often viewed as one of the greatest educators of the 20th century and should be honored as such. He was a great theologian who used religious responsibility to illustrate the need for racial unity and harmony.

We believe that by honoring Dr. Mays, we will reignite interest in his legacy. Most importantly, we understand that honoring Dr. Mays with the Presidential Medal of Freedom can reach and inspire a new generation to dream and work for equality, peace, and justice in America.