Farmer is the only one remaining of the Civil Rights Big Four of the era.
The Medal of Freedom was be awarded to Farmer and the others on the birthday of Martin Luther King. U.S. Rep. Max Sandlin of Marshall was among the honored guests who attended a reception for Farmer following the White House Ceremony. James Farmer is one of the giants and a true American hero, Sandlin said. He taught us that it's possible to work toward and achieve meaningful progress through commitment, education, fierce determination and strong faith. Sandlin said, AAs Americans we are better off as a people and as a nation thanks to James Farmer.