Coalition Director Jessica Lettween presented the award to Ellison. Photo courtesy of Minnesota Fair Trade Coalition

Coalition Director Jessica Lettween described Ellison as an "outspoken advocate for fair trade policy." In his acceptance speech, Ellison talked about the importance of keeping jobs in America, his work on \'Buy American\' initiatives and the unfair practices of many companies that exploit cheap labor in other countries.

"I\'m fighting there with you,” he told coalition members.