Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eugene Robinson to receive Brandeis Medal

LOUISVILLE, Ky. –Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eugene Robinson will receive the University of Louisville Louis D. Brandeis School of Law’s 2014 Brandeis Medal on April 9. The prize is the school’s highest honor and goes to advocates for social justice.

“This award recognizes those who are champions for fundamental human rights and social justice,” said law dean Susan Duncan. “That’s why Eugene is so perfect for this award. Through his life’s work he has been an influential voice calling for equality, freedom and human compassion.”

Robinson is an author, columnist, political commentator and a former assistant managing editor of The Washington Post. His most recent book, “Disintegration: The Splintering of Black America,” was published in 2010. He received a 2009 Pulitzer Prize in commentary for his columns on the 2008 presidential campaign.

The 6 p.m. event at The Brown Hotel, 335 W. Broadway, will take a unique approach, said Laura Rothstein, a law professor and co-chair of the Brandeis Award Committee.

“Since Eugene writes about many issues, we didn’t want to limit him to one topic. So he will have on-stage discussion with fellow journalist and UofL alumnus Bob Edwards in a format that is similar to the Kentucky Author Forum,” said Rothstein.

Topics expected to be covered include Edward Snowden and government transparency, “stand-your-ground” laws, racial disparity in crime sentencing, affirmative action and voting rights.