On the “We the People” website, Americans can request official action from the White House by creating and signing a petition.
One petition exists that every student, alumnus, family and friend of UNC should sign: the petition requesting President Barack Obama award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Dean Smith.
Given the number of Smith’s peers who have received the medal, it’s clear that this would be a meaningful way for Obama — a self-described “sucker” for the Tar Heels — to honor the legendary coach and humanitarian.
Dean Smith amassed a then-record 879 career wins and two national championships. However, it is not his countless hours spent on the recruiting trail or on the court that make him deserving.
While his statistics are astounding, it is what the Hall of Famer did off the court that makes him worthy of the United States’ most prestigious civilian honor.
Well ahead of his time, Smith used his position to advocate for human and civil rights.
He recruited UNC’s first black scholarship athlete, and helped desegregate Chapel Hill. Smith staunchly advocated against the death penalty.
Many of his former players have called him a “second father,” and his mentorship of these young Tar Heels led to his players having a 96 percent graduation rate.
Smith has been retired since 1997, but it would be hard to find a UNC fan that wouldn’t recognize him. His impact on the community and state still resonates 16 years since he last coached.
