LeVar Burton, beloved actor and literacy champion, has been awarded the prestigious National Humanities Medal for his outstanding contributions to literature and the arts. The honor recognizes Burton's decades-long dedication to promoting reading and education, particularly among children.
Best known for hosting the long-running PBS series "Reading Rainbow," Burton captivated young audiences for 23 years, earning numerous accolades including 12 Daytime Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award. His engaging approach to storytelling and passion for books inspired countless children to discover the joy of reading.
Beyond his work on "Reading Rainbow," Burton has left an indelible mark on American culture through his iconic roles in "Star Trek: The Next Generation" as Geordi La Forge and as Kunta Kinte in the groundbreaking miniseries "Roots."
The National Humanities Medal is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to deepening the nation's understanding of human experiences, broadening engagement with history and literature, or expanding access to cultural resources. Burton's career exemplifies these ideals, as he has consistently used his platform to promote literacy and education.
President Biden presented the medal to Burton in a private ceremony at the White House, recognizing the actor's impact on literature and artistic expression. Burton's wife, Stephanie Cozart Burton, shared the proud moment on social media, highlighting her husband's visit to the Oval Office and the significance of the award.
Burton's influence extends far beyond the screen, as he has encouraged children to explore new worlds, ideas, and perspectives through the power of books. His dedication to literacy has empowered generations to find their voices and tell their own stories.
As a National Humanities Medal recipient, LeVar Burton joins an esteemed group of individuals who have made lasting contributions to American culture. His tireless efforts to promote reading and education have truly made the world a better place, one book at a time.