February 20th "Citizen George"

"Citizen George" presents the life and work of Philadelphia-based Quaker activist George Lakey. The film moves back and forth in time, highlighting specific events of George’s activist life—including fighting for civil rights, anti-Vietnam War activism, LGBTQ rights, human rights in Sri Lanka and climate justice.

In addition to detailing his life as an activist, "Citizen George" tells George’s personal journey as a husband, father and out gay man. Animated sequences, inspired by graphic novels, illustrate scenes from George’s life. 

His story provides life-giving lessons to those struggling to make sense of the current troubling political climate, illuminate a path forward, and inspire those willing to work for change to face today’s moment.

Panelists for the Q&A audience discussion to be announced soon. Please check our website for updates.

The Hult Center is contributing 5 sets of tickets to the Changemaker Series - Gerlinde Kaltenbrunner Defying Limits: Climbing the 14 Highest Peaks, February 27, 7:00PM. These tickets will go to 5 lucky winners in a raffle drawing after the Frank Vignola Award.

"Citizen George" Award

Dr. Frank Vignola

Dr. Frank Vignola

Dr. Frank Vignola was a physics professor at the University of Oregon and had been at the forefront of the solar energy field for 45 years. Frank strongly believed in the future of solar energy and recognized the need for a dependable solar radiation database to measure solar resources. He established the Solar Energy Center and Solar Radiation Monitoring Laboratory (SRML) at the U of O and created a network of stations in the Pacific Northwest.

Frank was active with the American Solar Energy Society, joining many Oregon solar-related committees to share his technical knowledge, and was honored with their Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020. He worked on several progressive legislative bills that furthered alternative energy applications. At the UO, he advocated for efforts to enhance buildings where solar could be added (EMU) or incorporated into construction plans.

Frank also assisted in getting legislation to ban field burning in Oregon, was a peace activist, was active with the labor movement (helping the American Federation of Teachers to get established at the U of O), and helped create the Nobel Peace Park in Alton Baker Park.

Frank passed away on September 26, 2023, at his home . . . peacefully. The way he lived.



Film Sponsor