Connecticut Gov. Malloy To Receive JFK Profile In Courage Award

HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Connecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has been named the recipient of this year's John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award for his support of the resettlement of Syrian refugees in the United States after the Paris attacks.

Calling it "an incredible honor," Malloy said Kennedy was a hero.

"His legacy and spirit will resonate in eternity, and he continues to inspire generations of citizens to work towards the betterment of all Americans," Malloy said. "It is extraordinarily humbling to be recognized."

Kennedy's grandson, Jack Schlossberg, on Monday credited Malloy with taking "a stand against the hateful, xenophobic rhetoric'' when some governors and presidential candidates sought a ban on Syrian refugees.

He said the Democratic governor could have chosen the politically expedient course and remained silent on the issue.

Malloy also personally welcomed to Connecticut a Syrian family that had been turned away from Indiana.

"I just wanted to make sure the world knew that there were Americans who still believe in our Constitution, still believe in human rights and still believe in freedom of religion," the governor said.

Malloy is scheduled to receive the award May 1 in Boston.

Former Connecticut Gov. Lowell P. Weicker Jr. received the award in 1992 for ushering in the personal income tax.

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