Honoring Congressman Alcee L. Hastings’ Transatlantic Leadership
The German Marshall Fund of the United States remembers Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) for his trailblazing work in the fight against racial injustice and deep commitment to the transatlantic relationship. In 2016, GMF recognized Congressman Hastings for his transatlantic leadership and would later establish the Alcee L. Hastings Action Grant for Inclusive Leadership to support GMF alumni for their contributions to inclusion and diversity on both sides of the Atlantic—an ode to his tireless efforts. Read more about his life and leadership below.
In a political career that has spanned decades, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) has made foreign affairs a priority, knowing the important role the United States plays in peace and prosperity for people worldwide. From his beginning as the first African-American Judge on the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Congressman Hastings has made it a mission to expand the transatlantic community to embrace diversity and meet the demography and leadership requirements of the 21st century.
In support of that goal, Congressman Hastings hosted a delegation of German Bundestag Members in Florida in 2012 and attended a unique trip organized by the German Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF) to India with Members of Congress and the Bundestag. From Congressional visits to European capitals and speaking engagements at GMF’s annual Brussels Forum, Congressman Hastings has ensured cooperation between policymakers on both sides of the Atlantic.
On Wednesday, September 14, 2016, GMF presented Congressman Hastings with an award in recognition of his role in strengthening transatlantic relations. During his extensive service in Congress, Congressman Hastings has steadfastly championed both transatlantic relations and diversity in leadership. He developed the most diverse professional staff of the Helsinki Commission in its history, pioneered initiatives to improve the recruitment of minorities and women in the intelligence community, and he supported the USAID Donald M. Payne Fellowship focused on minorities in development careers. As a faithful advocate for youth and minorities, he has set an admirable example for his Congressional counterparts at home and his colleagues abroad.
In honor of Congressman Hasting’s exemplary record, GMF also announced The Alcee L. Hastings Action Grant for Inclusive Leadership. This grant, to be presented annually for the next three years, will be given to GMF alumni whose initiatives are making notable contributions to inclusion and diversity on both sides of the Atlantic. For more information or to support this grant, contact Kevin Cottrell [email protected].
Congressman Hastings’ commitment to diversity and inclusion in transatlantic leadership makes him an invaluable partner to GMF in its mission to strengthen transatlantic relations. GMF strives to create a cohesive and inclusive transatlantic community, investing in young leaders across sectors. As President Donfried noted, “We look to empower policymakers who reflect the diversity of the transatlantic community and who value the principles of representative government.”
Congressman Hastings was honored to accept the award, and thanked GMF for recognizing his service and supporting “the important role legislators such as [himself] play in strengthening the transatlantic relationship.”