Memphis Honors Benjamin Lawson Hooks with a Special Toast at Elmwood Cemetery

Memphis Celebrates a Local Legend: The Legacy of Benjamin Lawson Hooks

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – As we wrap up our exciting Spirits with the Spirits series, it’s time to raise our glasses and pay homage to a remarkable leader who left an everlasting mark on our beloved Memphis. On this chilly October day, lifestyle expert Alexandra Nolan and I, Kontji Anthony, ventured to the historic Elmwood Cemetery to delve into the extraordinary life of Benjamin Lawson Hooks.

A Toast to a True Community Hero

For today’s celebration, we’re preparing The Hooks Brew, a drink that captures both the boldness of Hooks’s legacy and the warmth he brought to the community. Whether you enjoy it as a cocktail or prefer the refreshing mocktail version, this delightful brew is the perfect way to honor his life and the profound impact he made on countless individuals.

Born and raised in Memphis, Benjamin Hooks dedicated himself to uplifting those around him. His leadership spanned various domains; he served as a preacher, a businessman, and a staunch community advocate. Hooks firmly believed in creating opportunities for everyone, ensuring that no matter their background, a pathway to success existed. His lifelong commitment to integrity and perseverance characterized his every endeavor.

A Life of Service and Dedication

As we share The Hooks Brew, let’s reflect on what made Hooks such an inspirational figure. He was not just a name in the community; he was a beacon of hope, showing that it is possible to drive positive change. His hard work and passion motivated many to step up and take an active role in shaping Memphis into a better place.

Benjamin Hooks was known for his uncompromising approach to leadership. He served as an executive director of the NAACP and tirelessly advocated for civil rights and equality. His voice resonated in the halls of power, where he pushed for legislative changes that would benefit the marginalized and oppressed. It was his advocacy that inspired future generations to be courageous in the pursuit of justice and equality.

The Spirit of Togetherness

Today, as we enjoy The Hooks Brew, we also celebrate the values that Hooks embodied – community, service, and love for one another. Gathering with friends and family to share this drink serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to uplift one another, just as hooks did throughout his life. The warmth of this drink is akin to the warmth of the relationships we build in our community.

Remembering Hooks goes beyond just recalling his accomplishments. It’s about instilling the spirit he emanated into our everyday lives. As we toast to Benjamin Lawson Hooks, let’s commit ourselves to embody his values, fostering an environment that seeks to empower everyone, no matter their circumstances. The legacy he crafted serves as a guiding star for all of us.

Raise Your Glass!

So, let’s lift our glasses—be it filled with a humming cocktail or a refreshing mocktail—and toast to a remarkable life well-lived! Cheers to Benjamin Hooks and the inspiration he continues to provide. As we sip on The Hooks Brew, let it inspire us to be leaders in our communities, just as he was, paving the way for future generations to dream boldly and act courageously.

Tonight, let’s remember that every encounter, every conversation, and every effort we make towards uplifting those around us is a celebration of his legacy. Here’s to Benjamin Lawson Hooks—a splendid leader, an unwavering advocate for justice, and a true friend to all.