March 11

Little is known about Clemente Tabone’s early life, but he emerged as a prominent landowner in southeastern Malta during the 17th century. He organized and led the local militia against corsair raids, playing a key role in regional defense. Around 1603, Tabone built what is now called Tabone Tower, one of the few surviving fortified houses on the island. The tower served both as his family residence and a refuge for villagers during attacks. Tabone’s actions exemplify the civic responsibility and resilience of Maltese gentry in an era of constant maritime threats. He died in 1665, and his tower remains a historical landmark reflecting Malta’s social and military heritage.

He led the National Urban League from 1961 to 1971, championing economic opportunity and equality for African Americans. Under his leadership, the League expanded its programs in education, employment, and housing. Young advised Presidents Kennedy and Johnson on civil rights policy and played a key role in drafting the Civil Rights Act of 1964. He emphasized collaboration between government, business, and the black community to drive social change. His dynamic advocacy elevated the fight for racial justice during a pivotal era.

Born in 1927, Simón Alberto Consalvi was a prominent Venezuelan intellectual and public servant. He began his career as a journalist and became editor-in-chief of leading newspapers. His expertise led to several appointments as Venezuela's Minister of Foreign Affairs, where he navigated Cold War diplomacy and regional affairs. Consalvi was also an accomplished historian and author, publishing works on Venezuelan political history. He played a crucial role in shaping Venezuela's foreign policy and cultural institutions. His multifaceted career bridged media, academia, and government service, leaving a lasting impact on his country.

Joel Brinkley, born in 1952, won a Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of humanitarian crises in Cambodia. He worked as a foreign correspondent for The New York Times, reporting from conflict zones around the world. Later, Brinkley transitioned to academia and became a lecturer at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business. He authored books on global affairs and mentored aspiring journalists. Brinkley was known for his insightful analysis and commitment to ethical reporting standards. His dual career in journalism and education influenced both the media industry and academic scholarship.

Born in 1946, Paul Alexander contracted polio during the 1950s epidemic. He became known for his decades-long reliance on an iron lung for respiratory support. Despite severe paralysis, he pursued higher education and earned a law degree. Alexander used his platform to raise awareness about polio and advocate for disability rights. His experience highlighted the long-term impacts of the disease on survivors. He inspired many with his determination to build a life beyond his physical limitations. He passed away on March 11, 2024.