The Howard County Human Rights Commission has revealed the beneficiaries of its 2024 Human Rights Awards, recognizing local individuals and organizations for their commitment to social justice and community betterment. Among the honorees are Dwanna Nicole, Columbia (MD) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (CAC-DST), and Ishaan Busireddy, selected for their distinctive contributions to advancing human rights in their community.
In a statement detailed by Howard County Government's official website, Howard County Executive Calvin Ball lauded the awardees, saying, "We are so fortunate to have you in Howard County and we thank you for your selfless work, devotion and commitment to being a pillar of strength and representation for our underserved neighbors and for always leading by example." Dwanna Nicole's work rests at the intersection of education and restorative justice, where she has been instrumental in creating spaces for solace and conflict transformation within the Howard County Public School System.
The CAC-DST, the county’s first African American sorority, is known for its advocacy on voting rights and maternal health issues. For its work, it was recently honored with the 2023 Governor’s Black History Month Leadership and Service award. At the same time, Ishaan Busireddy addresses food scarcity by leading sustainable agriculture projects, transforming school greenhouses and gardens into spaces for learning and community nourishment.
Lynda Earle, Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission, praised the county's spirit. As per the same Howard County Government release, "Our 2024 Human Rights Commission awardees help to make Howard County one of the greatest places to be because they choose to uplift others consistently. We are happy to honor them." The Human Rights Commission Awards are conferred annually in recognition of individuals and groups who've demonstrated exceptional commitment to civil rights and the pursuit of equality within the network of Howard County's residents.
The honors will be formally bestowed at a ceremony on October 8th at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center. Festivities will kick off at 6:30 p.m. and culminate with the awards presentation at 7 p.m. The public is welcome and encouraged to engage with this symbolic event, and they can reserve their spot online for free.
