Human Rights Award

About the award

The Human Rights Award was established to grant recognition to an area individual, group, or organization that has contributed to the advancement of human rights in Northfield. The Commission seeks to find a balanced and diverse slate of nominees that contribute locally to the cause of human rights in a variety of ways.

Announcement of recipient

Northfield Human Rights Award will be announced and presented at the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Community Celebration in January of each year.

Award benefits

  • Northfield Human Rights Award plaque provided to the recipient
  • Name inscribed on a “Northfield Human Rights Award” historical recipient plaque located at City Hall
  • News release and photo of the recipient will be given to the local media for publication

Eligibility

The following eligibility requirements apply:

  • Nominees must live, work, or conduct business in Northfield during the nomination year
  • Nominee services must be either voluntary or above-and-beyond a paid positions usual job responsibilities
  • Members of the Mayor and Council, City employees and the Human Rights Commission are not eligible to receive this award

Who may nominate

Anyone can make a nomination.

Selection committee

The Human Rights Commission will select the recipient.

Selection criteria

The selection is based on exceptional contributions to the City of Northfield and the community in the following areas:

  • An area individual, group, or organization that has contributed to the advancement of human rights in the City of Northfield.
  • The definition of human rights shall include protection from discrimination because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, disability, public assistance status, age, and sexual orientation as defined in the Minnesota Human Rights Act.
  • The Commission seeks to find a balanced and diverse slate of nominees that contribute locally to the cause of human rights in a variety of ways.

Deadline for nominations

October 31, 2023, 8 p.m.

Submitting nominations

Submit a nomination

Past winners

RecipientsYear
Emmaus Church2023
Matt Hillmann2022
Rahmah Abdulai2021
Employees of Laura Baker Services Association2020
Community Action Center2019
Jennifer Lompart2018
Father Dennis Dempsey2017
Susan Sanderson2016
The Key2015
Sharon Gates Hull2014
Judith Dirks2013
Catalyst Foundation - Caroline Ticarro-Parker and Scott Parker, co-founders2012
Robert Flaten2011
Beth Benson2010
Cheick M. Cherif Keita2009
Beth Berry2008
LaNelle Olson2007
HealthFinders Collaborative2005
Ron Linde2004
All Flex - Anne Lundstrom, president2003
Bettye Ronning2002
Manger Inn Partners in Service2001
Larry Sanftner2000
Laura Vick1998