In a moment of well-deserved recognition, Commissioner Rodney Griffin was honored with the Outstanding Texan Award by the Texas Legislative Black Caucus at a prestigious ceremony held at the Stephen F. Austin Hotel Sonesta in Austin, Texas.

Before a distinguished audience that included fellow honoree and renowned broadcaster Roland Martin, Griffin took the stage, delivering a stirring acceptance speech that paid tribute to his family’s legacy of education, business, and activism.

 Rep .Jolanda  Jones,  Hon. Rodney Griffin , Roland Martin, Hon. Senfronia Thompson
 

A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy

Griffin, deeply moved by the honor, dedicated his award to his late parents, William Lewis Griffin and Margaret Riggins Griffin, both of whom were educators, entrepreneurs, and lifelong freedom fighters.

“I accept this honor on behalf of my parents—William Lewis Griffin and Margaret Riggins Griffin—both educators, businesspeople, and freedom fighters. They were born and died on Texas soil.”

With unwavering conviction, Griffin emphasized the ongoing struggle for democracy and justice, rallying leaders and citizens alike to remain vigilant in the face of oppression:

“We the guardians of democracy must lead the resistance in our fight against the myriad faces of tyranny and oppression. We must fight these forces until hell freezes over, then we must fight them on the ice.”

A Trailblazer in Civil Rights and Public Service

Griffin’s lifelong commitment to public service and civil rights is well documented. He was an honored White House guest at the 50th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, recognizing his contributions to the ongoing fight for equality. His dedication continues today through his role as an appointee to the Fort Bend Appraisal Review Board, where he upholds fairness and integrity in local governance.

  

Honoring Excellence in Texas Leadership

The Outstanding Texan Award is a prestigious honor presented by the Texas Legislative Black Caucus to individuals who exemplify leadership, civic engagement, and a commitment to advancing the Black community. Representative Ron Reynolds, who nominated Griffin for the award, praised his unwavering dedication to justice, democracy, and progress.

As Griffin stood before the audience, his words resonated as both a celebration of his past achievements and a call to action for the future. His leadership serves as an inspiration for the next generation of changemakers, ensuring that the fight for justice and equality remains at the forefront of Texas history.

For more on Commissioner Rodney Griffin’s work and advocacy, visit Houston Style Magazine.

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