Tonight at 9 pm ET, for one night only, the world gets to witness the story of one of America’s greatest living leaders, Ambassador Andrew Young, in the new MSNBC Films documentary, Andrew Young: The Dirty Work, from executive producer Rachel Maddow.
This powerful film shines a light on the quiet, consistent, and courageous work that builds nations and transforms lives — the kind of work that doesn’t always make headlines, but changes history all the same.
The Work Behind the Dream
Ambassador Young has spent his life doing what he calls “the dirty work” — the tireless, often unseen labor of progress.
From walking alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the Civil Rights Movement to serving as a U.S. Congressman, Ambassador to the United Nations, and Mayor of Atlanta, he has embodied the kind of leadership that refuses to quit, no matter how hard the road gets.
At 93 years old, Ambassador Young still leads with humility, faith, and strength, reminding all of us that change doesn’t come from comfort, but from commitment.
That is the spirit of this film, and the spirit of true leadership.
A Friend, a Mentor, and a Voice for HOPE
I’m proud to call Ambassador Young both a friend and mentor, and to have learned from him personally and professionally over the years. He is also a friend of Operation HOPE, where he serves as our Global Spokesperson, helping us carry the message of financial dignity and economic inclusion to communities across America and around the world.
His example has always reminded me that progress is not just about ideas, it’s about people, too. It’s about doing the work that matters, even when no one is watching.
From the Classroom to the World
Earlier this week, I had the honor of joining Ambassador Young, Rachel Maddow, and Rev. Al Sharpton for a special conversation at Clark Atlanta University.
We gathered with the next generation of leaders, students of the Atlanta University Center, and the surrounding Atlanta community, to talk about what it means to lead with purpose and integrity in times of change. The energy in that room reflected exactly what Ambassador Young has modeled for decades: that leadership begins where service begins.
Don’t Miss It
Andrew Young: The Dirty Work premieres tonight on MSNBC at 9 pm ET.
This documentary is a paragon lesson in leadership, a story of faith in action, and a reminder of what it takes to build a better world.
Ambassador Young is one of the great architects of progress in our time. His story deserves to be seen — and shared.