Civil Rights

Madison – Madison Mayor Paul Soglin and Dane County Executive Joe Parisi seek nominations for the annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award. The City and the County each have long histories of honoring deserving individuals who demonstrate leadership and commitment to promoting peace between diverse populations.

"A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus," said Dr. King. Each of the Humanitarian Award winners will follow that model. Each of the Humanitarian Award winners (past and present) embodies this message. Two Humanitarian Awards will be presented: one for Emerging Leaders (ages 13-25) and one for Humanitarians (ages 25 and above). The nomination deadline is January 3, 2017 by 4:30 P.M.

"It is always humbling to be involved in these awards honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Acknowledging and supporting a warm inclusive community, especially during this challenging period in our nation’s history, is very important.," said Madison Mayor Paul Soglin. " We have many role models in our community and I look forward to the awards."

Nominees should have demonstrated leadership while making significant contributions to increasing communication and peace among our communities. Nomination application and criteria is attached. You may also access online applications and nominee criteria at: http://www.cityofmadison.com/civil-rights/about/awards/martin-luther-kin...

"We have a very generous community," said Dane County Executive Joe Parisi. "This award is a reminder to the lasting legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and the incredible community leaders working to promote peace and acceptance."

The City and County will present the awards at the 31st Annual City-County Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance on Monday, January 16th, at the Overture Center Capital Theater, 201 State Street, Madison. The program begins at 6:00 P.M.