OHR Newsletter – Holiday Edition

OHR Newsletter - Holiday Edition

Dear Residents, Neighbors, and Friends:

As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude on the resilience, compassion, and courage that mirror our community and our mission. In 2025, the Office of Human Rights continued to work hand in hand with residents, advocates, and partners to protect and promote civil and human rights for all in the District of Columbia.

This year, we've made meaningful strides: advancing language access, strengthening protection for vulnerable communities, and expanding our outreach to make sure every resident knows their rights and feels empowered to exercise them. These achievements are not ours alone - they are the result of tireless advocacy, steadfast commitment, and shared dedication from advocates across our city.

As we look ahead to 2026, we recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive city, one where opportunity is not limited by race, gender, disability, or any other identity. The work continues, and we are honored to do it alongside you.

Reflecting that commitment, we were proud to host our annual Human Rights Awards Ceremony earlier this month - a celebration of those who exemplify the values enshrined in the D.C. Human Rights Act. This year's theme, 'Continuing Advocacy for Women and Children in the District,' shaped our recognition of organizations and individuals whose work has meaningfully advanced the rights and well-being of women and children.

During the ceremony, we were honored to present the inaugural Erika L. Pierson Award, named in memory of our late Honorable Chief Administrative Law Judge Pierson, to Brittany Mobley, a tireless champion for youth justice and women's rights. Fatima Goss Graves received the Cornelius R. "Neil" Alexander Humanitarian Award for her national leadership in gender equity and civil rights. We also celebrated three inspiring high school students -Verenize Tejada-Flores, Mecca Bey, and Maia Burkhardt -who developed resources to help their peers better understand and access civil rights protections through OHR's Youth Human Rights Ambassador Program. Finally, the Zonta Club of Washington, D.C. was honored with the Community Service Award for its century-long commitment to advancing the rights of women and girls through advocacy and education. Each awardee reminds us that human rights are safeguarded not only through policy, but through everyday acts of courage, compassion, and leadership. Their work inspires us as we close the year with gratitude and look ahead with hope.

May this season bring you peace, reflection, and renewed hope. From all of us at the Office of Human Rights, thank you for your partnership, your advocacy, and your belief in a better future!

In Solidarity,

Elizabeth Fox-Solomon