Today marks the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King. And although we lost the freedom fighter, his message has continued to both live on and inspire. The teachings of Dr. King have in one way or another influenced globally-recognized movements rooted in the protection of human rights such as #MeToo, March for Our Lives, Black Lives Matter and Occupy Wall Street. At a point in history when police shootings are live-streamed and social media has become an almost necessary component to a protest, the many social justice issues plaguing communities all across the world are harder to ignore than ever.

“So much of what he talked about is still on the table as issues that we need to solve,” Angela Rye told REVOLT last month while on the red carpet of AT&T’s Humanity of Connection gala. “So right now, it just encourages me to keep going.”

The activist, political commentator and analyst—along with an esteemed group of trailblazers that included the legendary Cicely Tyson; Essence‘s Communications President, Michelle Ebanks; and the Robin Hood Foundation’s CEO, Wes Moore—had been a recipient of the night’s special honors. Held in honor of Dr. King, the goal of the second annual event, hosted by actor Hill Harper, was to “celebrate the power of human connectivity and the technologies that chronicle and connect the remarkable achievements of African-Americans.”

Whether poking holes in Donald Trump’s alternative facts or calling out the NRA for getting in God’s way, Rye has proven to be the perfect package of intellect, wokeness and swagger. Titles “empowermenteur,” “lawyer” and “hip-hop enthusiast,” as well as phrases like “love God and you,” “on your TV” and “on one” are found in this boss lady’s Instagram bio, and rightfully so.

“I believe I owe it to the community,” she said. “If I have a gift or a talent that can be used to advance the culture, I’m going to do that.”

Although the celebration of women and their accomplishments should be extended well beyond the month of the March, Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on not only the amazing women of yester-year, but also those who are helping to shape tomorrow. Aware of the time of year it was, the IMPACT co-founder showed some love to two leading ladies in her life.

“Congresswoman Maxine Waters is my mentor. I adore her. I also have to shout-out to my moms,” she said. “They are amazing, courageous women that I aspire to be like one day.”