The Society of Camera Operators (SOC) is pleased to announce the Gordon Parks Foundation will receive an honorary SOC membership. Selected and acknowledged by the SOC Board of Directors, The Gordon Parks Foundation is celebrated for its work in supporting and producing artistic and educational initiatives that advance the legacy and vision of Gordon Parks for social justice.
“Mr. Parks’ work and leadership has inspired myself, along with many others in our industry. He is a trailblazer in his own right, and someone I would call a cultural icon,” shared Nikk Hearn-Sutton, SOC, Co-Chair Inclusion Committee and Board of Governors Member.
Hearn-Sutton continued, “My uncle introduced me to Mr. Parks’ work – I have been a huge fan ever since I can remember. As an African-American myself, he is an inspiration to me personally, and this acknowledgement that the SOC is giving to his legacy for his large contributions to the many, is long overdue.”
Gordon Parks, one of the greatest photographers of the twentieth century, was a humanitarian with a deep commitment to social justice. He left behind an exceptional body of work that documents American life and culture from the early 1940’s into the 2000’s, with a focus on race relations, poverty, civil rights, and urban life. Parks was also a distinguished composer, author, and filmmaker who interacted with many of the leading people of his era—from politicians and artists to athletes and other celebrities.
“There is no one who most deserves such a distinction than Gordon Parks and the Gordon Parks Foundation,” shared George Billinger, SOC President. “Gordon Parks was one of the most groundbreaking figures in 20th century photography. His photojournalism during the 1940’s to the 1970’s reveals important aspects of American culture. It gives us great pride to award the Gordon Parks Foundation an honorary member.”
SOC honorary members are appointed by the Board of Governors to honor individuals and organizations that had contributed to advancing the mission of the Society. The organizations or individuals who receive an honorary membership are credited with expanding the creativity within the entertainment and the arts.
