The Prince William County Human Rights Commission held its annual Human Rights Day Award Ceremony, marking Universal Human Rights Day and celebrating 25 years of recognizing individuals and organizations for advancing equity, dignity, and justice in the community.
This year’s event followed the theme “From Reconstruction to the Future: 250 Years of Civil Rights Progress,” focusing on both the historical roots of civil rights in the United States and ongoing efforts to protect human rights at a local level.
Four individuals and two organizations were honored during the ceremony for their leadership, service, and advocacy supporting human rights in Prince William County.
Curtis Porter, Chairman of the Prince William County Human Rights Commission, highlighted the commission’s dedication to acknowledging diverse contributions. “The Prince William County Human Rights Commission has made it a point to recognize individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds who have made significant contributions in some form of human rights and civil rights in Prince William County. Over the last 25 years, we have recognized some outstanding individuals and outstanding organizations. This year is no different, recognizing individuals and groups who have contributed to our community.”
Dr. James “Jay” Gillispie delivered a keynote address that provided historical context on human rights development in America. He discussed struggles for voting rights among women and African Americans as well as the importance of the 14th Amendment. “They used the extraordinary circumstances to pass the 14th Amendment, making all people born here citizens, and therefore, entitled to equal protection under the law,” Gillispie said. “This was a major statement by the U.S.” He also noted that continued progress on civil rights brings society closer to fulfilling ideals set out in foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence.
County Executive Chris Shorter spoke about what this observance means for Prince William County. “I am just very thankful to be here to be able to share in this moment,” Shorter said. He emphasized that reflecting on achievements helps recognize those advancing equity and justice locally. “To our 2026 Human Rights Award recipients, I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to you,” Shorter said. “Each of you has made a powerful impact on the lives of others. You have certainly built and helped us build a stronger, more resilient and more inclusive Prince William County.”
Raul Torres, Director of the Human Rights Commission, closed by affirming basic principles behind human rights advocacy: “Human rights are inherent rights that each individual has, not because they’re given by government, but because they’re born human and that grants them those rights,” Torres said.
This year’s awardees included Michael Artson for leading an enrichment program focused on academic achievement among high school students; Woodbridge Workers Committee for its work with immigrants and low-income residents through partnerships with food banks; Riley Devereaux for her advocacy with Disabled Disrupters supporting emergency planning legislation for students with disabilities; Chaplain Raymond Perez for mentoring incarcerated people at Prince William-Manassas Regional Adult Detention Center; Marty Nohe—former Coles District Supervisor—for promoting civic unity from 2003-2019; Project Mend-A-House for providing home repair services supporting housing stability among vulnerable populations.
The ceremony ended with attendees reading aloud an oath pledging commitment to dignity, equality, social progress, freedom, justice, and peace throughout Prince William County.
