Springfield honors former Rep Ben Swan's legacy

Here's a gentleman that's very humble, very genuine, very well respected, and a man of his word. Every year, the Springfield Museum's African Hall Committee awards an individual who has accomplished outstanding work in the community. From numerous community and leadership nominations, the committee recognized 92-year-old Ben Swann on Wednesday. State Representative Ben Swann represents the history of the city of Springfield, the From earning an education in Springfield, his leadership in the civil rights movement, to serving as a state representative of the 11th Hamden District, the city has named a street and elementary school after him. Ben Swann is the history of the black community in the city of Springfield. He has mobilized thousands of individuals in the 60s and the 70s, and so capturing this history is critical, particularly for our young individuals who need to be motivated. So a documentary of his life was shown inside Raymond Jordan's senior center in Springfield. Many say Swann never looked for any accolades, but he says he's happy that flowers were given to him while he's still alive. If you're going to give them, I think this is the time to do it, because that's when the burdens get under. You can appreciate them the most, but you can't appreciate it when you're... He also says if he wasn't in the wheelchair, he would be doing so much more. Working for you, Sarah Bien-Aimé, 22 News.