Award Details

Memorial Award for Activism in Human Rights

The Award for Activism in Human Rights was launched in 2016 by the Alison L. Des Forges Memorial Committee. The award is given in recognition of an individual or organization whose actions have exemplified Alison’s uncompromising commitment to advancing the cause of human rights in Western New York and/or throughout the world. The $1,000 award is offered annually.

Award Criteria

The award recognizes an individual or organization whose actions may include:              

• Advocacy of equality and justice for all, through public discourse, debate or publications

• Promotion of public policies that seek to impede abuses of human rights

• Initiation of and participation in professional or volunteer programs and organizations that seek to ensure and extend human rights.

Awardees should have a strong connection to Western New York and be of exemplary personal character. They should seek no personal recognition or reward for their commitment to human rights, which may include the free exercise of political and religious beliefs.