As the world continues to navigate a global health crisis, we pause to acknowledge and celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the dedication of people all over the world and our city to rally around each other. To those who've worked tirelessly to meet the urgent needs brought on by a pandemic and other unexpected challenges in healthcare, employment, housing, and public accommodations - we salute you.

Join us as we honor those who stood up during difficult times, protected important human rights, and nurtured the next generation of people who can do the same. During this celebration, we will be presenting our Cornelius R. ‘Neil’ Alexander Humanitarian Award, and, for the first time, the Emerging Leadership Award, reserved for young people. Stay tuned for the announcement of our awardees!

The Gala is an annual event that is usually held close to International Human Rights Day, December 10, a day that commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. This year, the COHR is also celebrating the 50th anniversary of its inception.

Light hors d'oeuvres and refreshments will be served ahead of the program. Mask wearing is encouraged at this event. If you require a reasonable accommodation or language assistance (non-English language interpretation) please contact us by phone at 202-727-1145 or by email at [email protected] by Wednesday, December 1, 2021.