Nearly 100 human rights advocates, leaders, and community members gathered last night for the annual Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day, a powerful evening that promised a hopeful future for equality and justice across the state.

Nashville, Tennessee, 12th December 2024, ZEX PR WIRE, Held in honor of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the event highlighted this year’s theme: “Human Rights Today: A Recommitment to Equality and Unity.” Held in the historic civil rights landmark First Baptist Church Capitol Hill, the evening underscored the vital role of collective action in advancing human rights.

A highlight of the event was the recognition of six outstanding individuals whose work has made a significant impact on communities across Tennessee:

• Lifetime Achievement Award: Brenda Morrow, a lifelong advocate and Director of the Edgehill Family Resource Center for over 30 years.

• Outstanding Service Awards:

  • Dr. Paul Juarez, nationally recognized for addressing health disparities and injury prevention.

  • Dr. Julie Doochin, founder of the Tennessee Higher Education Initiative, bringing degree-bearing college programs to prisons in Tennessee.

• Rising Advocate Awards:

  • Judith Clerjeune, Campaign & Advocacy Director at the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, championing immigrant and refugee voices.

  • Justin Munoz, Community Engagement Manager at Conexion Americas, fostering inclusion and support for diverse communities.

  • Stephanie Watson, an advocate for accessibility who inspired policy changes in Clarksville to enhance resources for people with disabilities.

The event, organized by a coalition of human rights organizations including the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, Tennessee United for Human Rights, and other community partners, celebrated the strength found in unity and the shared commitment to making human rights a reality for all.

“Human Rights Day revolves around the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and this year we are highlighting how to recommit to equality and unity,” said Rev. Brian Fesler, chair of the planning committee and pastor of the Church of Scientology in Nashville. “This day provides inspiration for the year ahead and an opportunity to recharge while connecting with organizations dedicated to progress.”

For more information on the Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day, to see the program booklet, photos from the event or watch videos of the award recipients, visit www.tnuhr.org.