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This year’s “Evening with the Mackinac Center” included a tribute to two individuals whose courage and dedication to liberty has left an imprint in Michigan.
The Champions of Freedom Award went to Edward Levy Jr., a respected business leader and policy advocate, in recognition of a lifetime of principled entrepreneurship and service.
Levy built a multigenerational family business with an important principle: “Always treat others as we wish to be treated and work hard to gain the same treatment from others.” Rising through the ranks from junior laborer to executive chairman, he earned the admiration of employees and peers. Throughout his career, he exemplified diligence, mutual respect and ethical leadership.
A staunch supporter of Detroit’s revitalization, Levy backed education and workforce initiatives to create opportunity and drive economic growth. Since 1996 he has served on the Mackinac Center’s board, helping to shape our mission by offering strategic guidance and philanthropic support.
Terry Bowman, a former long-time United Auto Workers member, received the Lives, Fortunes, and Sacred Honor Award for his stand against compulsory union dues that funded political causes he and others opposed.
In 2010, Bowman founded Union Conservatives and became a voice for right-to-work reforms in Michigan. At personal and professional risk, he testified before lawmakers, appeared in the media and spoke with fellow union members. His work has enabled millions of workers nationwide to stand up for their rights. He continues his advocacy today as board chair of the Institute for the American Worker while working full- time at Ford Motor Co. His life exemplifies the spirit that inspired this honor.
Together, Levy and Bowman represent the courage, vision and commitment essential to advancing freedom in Michigan and across the country.
