The City of Chandler has announced the opening of nominations for its Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards Program, set to begin on November 1. According to a city press release, the program celebrates individuals who have displayed a strong commitment to social justice, civil rights, and community empowerment — values that align with Dr. King's enduring legacy.
There are three distinct categories for nominees: the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Achievement Award, which goes to those who've worked extensively in social and economic justice, the Emma Arbuckle Empowerment Award, named after a local advocate and community leader, and the Youth Action Award for students 18 or younger who promote non-violence and serve their community. A $500 award accompanies the latter to help spur further efforts by young leaders, as detailed by the City of Chandler.
Nominations are due by 5 p.m. December 9, and can be submitted through the official Chandler Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards webpage. Nominee criteria require that candidates are proactive in human and civil rights advocacies, and must be affiliated with Chandler through residence, work, or education. Details on how to nominate and who qualifies can be found on the city's website.
The awards are slated to be handed out in an intimate ceremony on January 17, 2025. Winners will be notified a month prior, the week of December 16. For more information about the award program, now in its third year, individuals are encouraged to reach out to Adrianna Tušek Erickson from the city's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Division at 480-782-2224, or contact public information officer Stephanie Romero for press inquiries.
