The DC Commission on Human Rights requests your assistance in identifying nominees for the following two categories of human rights awards to be awarded during the 2021 Human Rights Gala. This Gala will take place on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, in advance of the annual international Human Rights Day, which is celebrated annually on December 10, the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948). It is expected that the Gala will take place as an in-person event with live streaming available. Nominations must be received no later than October 29, 2021.
Cornelius R. “Neil” Alexander Humanitarian Award
For almost twenty years, until his untimely death in 2007, Neil Alexander served as the Chief Hearing Examiner for the D.C. Commission on Human Rights. With extensive knowledge of discrimination law and a dedication to civil rights and social justice, Neil wrote numerous legal decisions that not only received regional and national attention but set precedents that would forever shape the city of D.C. The Cornelius R. “Neil” Alexander Humanitarian Award recognizes the efforts and accomplishments of those who embody the legacy of Neil Alexander in their life-time contributions to the protection of many of the 21 traits protected under the DC Human Rights Act, resulting in a lasting impact on the quality of life of residents in the District of Columbia.
To nominate a D.C. community member for the Cornelius R. “Neil” Alexander Humanitarian Award, please write a short statement in support of the nominee, including all the information requested below, and email the statement to the D.C. Commission on Human Rights at: [email protected]. Nominations must be received no later than October 29, 2021.
- Name
- Affiliation and title
- Email and street addresses (if available)
- In what way(s) has the nominated individual made a significant contribution to the enjoyment of human or civil rights in the District of Columbia?
- In what way(s) has the individual improved our quality of life in the District of Columbia?
- Is the individual a resident of the District?
Emerging Human Rights Leader Award
The Commission is pleased to present this new award to emerging leaders aged 30 years or younger, who exhibit extraordinary leadership in human rights awareness raising through advocacy, the arts, education, networking, outreach, or other similar activities. The leadership preferably would center around one or more of the 21 protected traits under the DC Human Rights Act, or an emerging human rights issue that is yet to receive sufficient attention and protection. Up to three awards in this category will be presented. The Commission welcomes nominations of exceptional DC residents for the above awards. On an exceptional basis, the Commission may consider non-DC residents if the nominated individual’s exceptional contributions in the District of Columbia can be demonstrated.
To nominate a D.C. community member for the Emerging Human Rights Leader Award, please write a short statement in support of the nominee, including all the information requested below, and email the statement to the D.C. Commission on Human Rights at: [email protected] For each nominee, please provide the following information:
- Name
- Affiliation and title
- Email and street addresses (if available)
- In what ways has the nominated individual raised awareness of human rights issues in the District of Columbia?
- What are the human rights issues that the nominated individual focuses on? f. Is the individual a resident of the District and aged 30 or younger?