Kurt M. Campbell Deputy Secretary of State | Official Website
On October 21, 2024, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken will present the second annual Secretary’s Award for Global Anti-Racism Champions at the U.S. Department of State. This award recognizes six civil society leaders for their significant contributions to advancing racial equity, justice, and human rights. Following the ceremony, the awardees will participate in an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) in Washington, D.C., and New York City, NY. During this program, they will engage with their U.S. counterparts to exchange knowledge on promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms for marginalized communities while addressing systemic racism, discrimination, violence, and xenophobia.
The 2024 honorees include:
Dintie Sule Tayiru from Ghana has worked as Executive Director of SAVE-Ghana to promote the inclusion of the Fulbe community in the Upper West Region. His efforts have led to reforms such as lower cattle tax rates and mediation between Fulbe and non-Fulbe communities. He is recognized for his work in advancing human rights for vulnerable groups.
John Leerdam from the Netherlands has dedicated over four decades to fighting racial equity within Dutch society. As a former Member of Parliament and founder of Black Achievement Month, he has been instrumental in advocating for Black Dutch citizens' rights.
Elvis Shakjiri from North Macedonia is a founding member and Executive Director of Romalitico. He has played a crucial role in ending Roma statelessness and improving access to social services for Roma people.
Urmila Chaudhary from Nepal is an abolitionist who co-founded the Freed Kamlari Development Forum after being rescued from child servitude at age 17. She is honored for her dedication to advancing marginalized castes' rights.
Tanya Duarte from Mexico is an Afro-Mexican feminist who has supported marginalized communities through seminars on gender and reproductive health while advocating for equitable public policies.
Tomasa Yarhui Jacomé from Bolivia has spent 25 years advocating for Indigenous rights. She was Bolivia's first Indigenous woman municipal councilor and minister, working on issues related to human rights and gender-based violence.
For media inquiries regarding this event or further information about these individuals' achievements, contact DRL-Press@state.gov.
