LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Raoul Cunningham, the longtime leader of Louisville's NAACP branch, announced his retirement Saturday after more than six decades of service to civil rights and advocacy.
Cunningham left an indelible mark on the community, the NAACP said in a news release Monday, with a focus on voting rights, where he played a pivotal role in expanding access for disenfranchised populations.Â
Cunningham's retirement was announced at the annual Freedom Fund Banquet at the Muhammad Ali Center in downtown Louisville. There were more than 500 supporters, dignitaries and community leaders to celebrate the organization's social justice and equality efforts.
Leon Russell, chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors, shared a keynote address. The NAACP also announced the creation of the Raoul Cunningham Social Justice and Advocacy Award.Â
"It has been my honor to serve the people of Louisville and work alongside so many who are committed to justice," Cunningham told the audience. "While I may be stepping back, the work continues, and I trust this next generation to keep pushing the fight forward."
The city of Louisville will also rename a portion of the 700 block of 45th Street in Cunningham's honor.Â
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