AGOURA HILLS, Calif. (WordNews.org) March 14 2012 — Artist, singer and author Joni Eareckson Tada, known for her advocacy on behalf of those with disabilities, will be honored with the Wilberforce Award during the annual Wilberforce Weekend held March 30-April 1 in Lansdowne, Va.

The award is presented by Breakpoint/The Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview. It is named for William Wilberforce, the British parliamentarian who fought for 26 years to abolish slavery in Great Britain, finally succeeding with the passage of the Slave Trade Act in 1807.

Chuck Colson, who hosts the BreakPoint radio program, said Tada was picked to receive the award because she — like Wilberforce — has persevered and sacrificed to fight social injustice and to transform culture.

“She is a defiant, inspirational, joy-filled rebuttal to those who would assault the sanctity of human life,” Colson said.

The award honors those who share Wilberforce’s passions and principles:

• Making a significant impact on the social ills of the day through personal effort, skill, and influence;
• Showing perseverance and selflessness in combating injustice, even to the point of willingness to sacrifice personal comfort, career and reputation;
• Making positive change in the values and character of society — “reforming manners” — through personal witness, example and education;
• Serving as an exemplary witness for Christ.

“I think anyone who knows her would agree with me that these award criteria describe Joni perfectly,” said Joni and Friends President Doug Mazza. “We are pleased that she has been singled out for this honor and appreciate Chuck Colson and Breakpoint’s recognition of Joni’s contributions.”

Tada was paralyzed in a diving accident in 1967.Her faith helped her persevere as she learned to paint and draw with her mouth. Her story became a book, “Joni,” which was maded into a movie by the same name.

She founded Joni and Friends in 1979 to fulfill this purpose.

“When I look at the list of previous recipients of the Wilberforce Award, I am awed and humbled to be in their company,” Tada said. “They are senators and congressmen, doctors and bishops and ambassadors. I am overwhelmed to be included in their number, but am grateful for any recognition that helps further our work at Joni and Friends and the promotion of the biblical worldview.”