Abba Alhadi, a 72 year-old librarian, risked his life when he ingeniously smuggled the vast majority of Timbuktu's ancient manuscripts to safety. He had this to say: "I saved these books in the name of Timbuktu first, because I am from Timbuktu. Then I did it for my country. And also for all of humanity. Because knowledge is for all of humanity."
This poignant sentiment deserves recognition and promotion from the world's foremost free society. Mr. Alhadi serves as powerful a symbol of hope and perseverance in the face of evil.
President Obama, we call upon you to grant this man the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Few are more deserving of this honor: in an age of creeping hostility and crushing ignorance, one shining example of righteousness can change the world.