The Gallery of Heroes

As a strategist he was crucial to the organization of the March on Washington and his desire for non-violent protest was one that saw him work closely with Martin Luther King. As an openly gay man in a time when homosexuality was criminalized, Rustin’s effectiveness was somewhat limited, as people’s prejudices got the better of their judgment.

John Daido Loori was a deeply realized and compassionate teacher of Zen who dedicated his life to helping others to live in equanimity and compassion.

Alan Turing changed the world not once, but twice. He altered the course of World War II by cracking codes and followed that up with groundbreaking work on computers.

Emily Douglas is the founder (at age 11) of Gandma’s Gifts, an organization committed to assisting those in need in the Appalachia area.

Mum Shirl Smith helped young Aborigines in and out of prison. She gave them someone to call “mum”.

Erin Brockovich gained fame for her role in battling the Pacific Gas and Electric Company who had been leaking poisonous compounds into the local water supply of Hinkley, California.

Wadongo’s vision is to transform rural communities by making light free and possible. He believes that solar powered light can lift them out of poverty.

Luis Soriano, a modest 38 year old teacher in La Gloria, Colombia, believes in the power of a book. He began his teaching career with a job reading to students, and soon realized that there was a critical education gap in the community.

Eve Ensler, best known for her play “The Vagina Monologues,” is an American playwright, performer, and activist.

Brady Gustafson was awarded the Navy Cross, the 2nd highest award for valor, after his actions on July 21st, 2008 in Afghanistan.