A LEADER BY PRINCIPLE :

REV. LEON SULLIVAN

As we delve further into Black History Month, we are honored to turn our spotlight to the remarkable legacy of Reverend Leon H. Sullivan, a distinguished West Virginian whose impact on civil rights, economic justice, and global advocacy continues to reverberate.

Born in Charleston, West Virginia, in 1922, Sullivan's journey unfolded against the backdrop of racial segregation and economic inequality. A Baptist minister, Sullivan emerged as a pivotal figure in the civil rights movement, contributing to the development of the Sullivan Principles, a groundbreaking set of guidelines promoting equal opportunities and fair employment practices for multinational corporations operating in apartheid-era South Africa.

A LEGACY THAT TRANSCENDS BOUNDARIES:

Leon Sullivan's influence extends far beyond his West Virginian roots. His commitment to civil rights and economic empowerment propelled him onto the global stage, shaping policies and inspiring movements that sought to dismantle racial injustice and economic disparities.

In 1971, Sullivan the first African-American to serve on the board of directors of General Motors, the automotive manufacturing company founded in 1908. When the Sullivan Principles, a code of conduct for companies operating in South Africa were announced in 1977, General Motors and several other companies around the globe adopted the Sullivan Principles. The United Nations adopted the ‘‘Global Sullivan Principles’’ as an international corporate code of conduct in the fall of 1999.

AN ADVOCATE FOR ECONOMIC JUSTICE:

Sullivan's advocacy for economic justice and corporate responsibility is encapsulated in the Sullivan Principles, which laid the foundation for ethical business practices and equality in the workplace. His tireless efforts contributed to positive change not only in South Africa but also served as a catalyst for discussions on corporate social responsibility worldwide.

INSPIRATIONAL LEADERSHIP:

A dynamic leader, Sullivan's dedication to fostering economic opportunities and uplifting marginalized communities earned him international acclaim. His legacy serves as a beacon for those committed to effecting positive change through ethical leadership and social activism.

See in the photo above, Rev. Leon Sullivan with Japanese actress Reiko Higa in 1963. Photo from WVSU.

EDUCATIONAL LEGACY:

Leon Sullivan's commitment to education and empowerment is reflected in Sullivan Hall on West Virginia State University's Campus, which bears his name. The first co-ed dormitory on WVSU's campus, Sullivan Hall was completed in 1970, named for WVSU alumnus Leon Sullivan, who graduated from West Virginia State College in 1943.

WORDS FROM WVSU PRESIDENT ERICKE CAGE:

“The incredible life and enduring legacy of the Rev. Leon Sullivan represents the transformative power of education,” said WVSU President Ericke S. Cage.

“From growing up in very humble beginnings in Charleston, Rev. Sullivan came to West Virginia State University to earn a college degree which helped launch him on a path to becoming one of the leading champions for civil rights and economic justice that the world has known.”

This stands as a testament to his dedication to providing opportunities for learning and growth in his home state, and at his alma mater.

Click here to learn about the history of Sullivan Hall at WVSU.

LITERARY AND COMMEMORATIVE RECOGNITIONS:

Sullivan's impactful life story has been documented in literature and commemorated through various avenues, underscoring the significance of his contributions. Whether through biographies, documentaries, or institutional recognitions, Sullivan's legacy continues to be celebrated and studied.

Sullivan has received some of the highest awards a U.S. citizen can receive including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1992, the Four Freedoms Award from the Roosevelt Institute, as well as the Eleanor Roosevelt Award for Human Rights.

On August 11, 2000, the former Broad Street in Charleston, WV was dedicated in his name as Leon Sullivan Way.

See in the photo above, Rev. Leon Sullivan at the street naming

dedication in Charleston, W.Va. in 2000.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE STREET NAMING DEDICATION

'A PRINCIPLED MAN' - A DOCUMENTARY

Filmed in the year 2000, is a documentary directed by Diana Sole, CEO of MotionMasters. Diana shared with us, a few words regarding her experience making this documentary with Rev. Leon Sullivan all those years ago:

"Rev. Leon Sullivan was a towering figure in the American Civil Rights movement and in breaking apartheid in South Africa. His work as the first African American board member of an international firm (General Motors) and as the founder of a worldwide job training program (OIC) made him an international figure, but he was a very humble man who preferred the footlights to the spotlight. It took a lot of convincing to get him to share his story in our biographical documentary, “A Principled Man.”

He asked me many times, in the months before he trusted his story to us – “Why should I do this?” My answer was, “Because our children need to hear the story.”

I believe my answer is as true today as it was then. His story is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. He grew up in what he described as “the alley behind the alley” in Charleston, West Virginia and went on to impact global change.

One man, or woman, can make a difference.

The Rev. Leon Sullivan is proof." - Diana Sole, CEO, MotionMasters

CLICK HERE TO WATCH 'A PRINCIPLED MAN' DOCUMENTARY

As we honor Reverend Leon H. Sullivan during this Black History Month, let us recognize the enduring impact of his contributions, both locally and globally.

Join us in commemorating his legacy as we continue to shed light on extraordinary individuals who have shaped the history of West Virginia and beyond.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT REV. LEON SULLIVAN