Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Time is running out to nominate for the 2009 Young People’s Human Rights Medal
People aged 25 years or under (as of 3 July) who have made outstanding contributions to advancing human rights in Australia should hurry to get their nominations in for the 2009 Young People’s Human Rights Medal before nominations close on 2 October, Australian Human Rights Commission President Cathy Branson QC, said today.
“This year is only the second time this prestigious Medal has been awarded and I know there are very many young people out there who would qualify,” Ms Branson said.
“If you know someone who has promoted equality and human rights through their work, study, life or as a volunteer, have a think about nominating them for this award.
“The efforts of these young unsung heroes make a difference and the Australian Human Rights Commission is honoured to recognise them with this special Medal.”
President Branson said the 2008 inaugural Young People’s Human Rights Medal was awarded to University of Queensland medical student, Alan Huynh, for his tireless work in multicultural community development, youth engagement and global health issues.
“Young people are busy promoting and protecting human rights all around Australia every day,” Ms Branson said.
“Have a think about what your friends are doing or your colleagues at work, University, TAFE or even school, and if you would like to see them recognised for their outstanding efforts, why not nominate them for this Medal?”
Ms Branson said nominations were also being called for the Human Rights Medal and seven award categories: Law, Community (Organisation), Community (Individual), Literature (non-fiction), Print Media, Television and Radio.
“The awards aim to recognise outstanding contributions made within communities or through the practice of law, through writing books about human rights issues or through the media,” Ms Branson said.
The Australian Human Rights Commission has a web-section, www.humanrights.gov.au/hr_awards,
containing all the information about the 2009 Human Rights Medals and Awards, including Award categories, how to enter, judging criteria, previous winners and how to buy a ticket to the awards ceremony.
There’s also a section for media, with the latest news releases, and information about the sponsors for this year’s Award ceremony which are: LexisNexis; the Australian Government’s Department of Immigration and Citizenship; the Law Council of Australia; iHR Australia; Trophyland; Vibe Australia; and, The Co-op Bookshop.
Nominations close on Friday, 2 October, 2009. Winners will be presented with their Medals and Awards at a gala luncheon ceremony to be held on Human Rights Day, Thursday, 10 December 2009 at the Sheraton on the Park in Sydney.
Please see the video message from Commission President, Cathy Branson, at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HNEZpSClp8
Tickets to awards: Ph: 02 9284 9618 or hrawards@humanrights.gov.au
$70 or $45 concession, includes two course luncheon, drinks and entertainment.
Media contact: Louise McDermott 02 9284 9851 or 0419 258 597
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