The National Education Association (NEA) will honor nine individuals and organizations with its highest accolade, the Human and Civil Rights (HRC) Awards, on July 2 at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland. The awards dinner marks its 58th annual celebration under the theme “Building a Legacy for Collective Freedom: A Celebration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”
The NEA’s commitment to recognizing leaders in civil rights began after its merger with the American Teachers Association in 1966. This tradition continues as the NEA acknowledges this year’s recipients for their contributions to social and racial justice.
“This year’s recipients of the NEA Human and Civil Rights Awards are not just meeting the moment—they are redefining it,” said NEA President Becky Pringle. She praised their efforts in advocating for public education and social justice.
Among those honored is Leshun “Ship” Collins from Orange High School in Pepper Pike, Ohio. Collins receives the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Award for his mentorship of young African American men through programs like the Male Minority Leadership Group.
Holocaust survivor Maude Dahme is recognized with the Dorros Peace and International Understanding Award for her dedication to Holocaust education. Her efforts aim to ensure that history does not repeat itself.
Marissa Winmill is awarded the Mary Hatwood Futrell Award for advancing academic opportunities for young women. Her initiatives include starting a Girls Who Code club at Kent-Meridian High School in Washington.
Marta Silva receives the George I. Sánchez Memorial Award for her work as a heritage language instructor at Olathe North High School in Kentucky, promoting educational opportunities for Hispanic students.
Elise Carter is honored with the Carter G. Woodson Memorial Award for her advocacy of African American culture through innovative courses despite facing criticism.
Jesús Valle earns the Wilma Mankiller Memorial Award for his contributions to Native American studies and creating resources for Indigenous youth at Sacramento’s American River College.
The Showing Up for Education-Kansas City, Education Core (SURJ-KC) receives recognition with the H. Councill Trenholm Memorial Award for educating about racism’s impact on public schools.
The Mississippi Minority Farmers Alliance is acknowledged with the Reg Weaver Human and Civil Rights Award for supporting marginalized farmers and promoting equity in agriculture.
Ke Kula ‘O Nāwahīokalani ‘Ōpu ‘U Iki Public Charter School receives the Ellison S. Onizuka Memorial Award for preserving Hawaiian language and culture among Asian American and Pacific Islander youth.
