Former President Barack Obama has been honored with the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Award in New York.

In his remarks Wednesday night, Obama said “it’s easy to succumb to cynicism” but that “Bobby Kennedy’s life reminds us to reject such cynicism” and that “progress is fueled by hope.”

The organization’s president, Kerry Kennedy, presented the award. Also being honored were New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, Discovery president and CEO David Zaslav and Humana CEO Bruce Broussard.

The Ripple of Hope Award celebrates leaders “who have demonstrated a commitment to social change.” Past recipients include Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Al Gore, Bono, George Clooney and Robert De Niro.

This year also marks the 50th anniversary of Robert F. Kennedy’s campaign for the White House.