Memphis, Tenn. ? Oprah Winfrey and Paul Rusesabagina, whose heroism in the face of genocide inspired the film “Hotel Rwanda,” have been honored with the National Civil Rights Museum’s Freedom Awards.

Winfrey was recognized with the museum’s national award for working to improve the lives of poor children in Africa and helping to create a U.S. database of convicted child abusers.

Rusesabagina, who received the international award, is credited with saving the lives of more than 1,200 people during the mid-’90s Rwandan genocide in which nearly 1 million people were killed.

Speaking to thousands of schoolchildren and others gathered at a local church Thursday, Winfrey praised the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and other civil rights leaders for paving the way for her success.

“Your crown has been paid for,” she said. “Put it on your head and wear it.”

Winfrey said she accepted the award and an invitation to come to Memphis in part because of the chance to meet Rusesabagina.

Rusesabagina, who was portrayed by Oscar-nominated Don Cheadle in “Hotel Rwanda,” was given a standing ovation when he told the crowd his name means “the one who disperses his enemies.”