2019 NEA Human and Civil Rights Awards

The annual NEA Human and Civil Rights Awards is inextricably linked to the 1966 merger of the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Teachers Association (ATA). ATA, which represented Black teachers in segregated schools in the South, traditionally honored leaders in the justice and civil rights movement at an annual awards dinner. This inspirational program was necessary to acknowledge progress in the movement towards justice nationwide, and to uplift positive impacts on the education of students of color. As a new merged Association, the NEA has proudly held to this tradition each year since 1967, celebrating leaders in racial justice, social justice, human and civil rights.

Formerly hosted as a black-tie awards dinner, the format changed to an elegant Awards show ceremony, extending the program to a larger audience of educators and community. The ceremony will be held in theatre-style with seats in the General Assembly Theatre available for purchase. Attire is cocktail formal.

The night will begin with a General Reception at 5:00 p.m. where drinks will be available for purchase. FOOD WILL NOT BE PROVIDED. Guests are encouraged to eat either before or after the awards program.

Please join us for a night of celebration as we honor distinguished students, educators, extraordinary individuals and organizations from around the country & the world for their contributions to the advancement of human and civil rights. We look forward to seeing you there!