exalt's 2023 Gala:"Framing the Future of Freedom"
On June 14th, 2023 at exalt's annual spring gala "Framing the Future of Freedom," we honored the men once known as the Central Park 5. The Exonerated 5 - Korey Wise, Antron McCray, Raymond Santana, Kevin Richardson and Yusef Salaam - all Black and Latino men - were wrongly accused of the rape of a white jogger in 1989. The award was accepted by Dr. Yusef Salaam.
"We chose to honor these individuals because of their perseverance in the face of staggering odds which serves as a model of strength and grace for the young people exalt serves. Hearing Yusef's story tonight reminds us, too, that this tale is not an anomaly or a relic of the past. We have so much to do to truly free our young people," said CEO Gisele Castro.
"I'm honored to accept this award on behalf of the work," said Yusef Salaam. "Because it is the work that deserves the honor and attention. It is the work of building a community around our youth. exalt is doing that work."
The event was held in New York City at Trinity Church Wall Street and welcomed a dynamic group of attendees including current exalt students and graduates, educators, government officials and leaders in the financial, real estate, technology and philanthropic sectors. View photos.
