Headwaters Foundation Announces 2013 Allies for Justice Honorees

Source: Headwaters Foundation for Justice 03/07/2013

(Mar. 7, 2013) — The Headwaters Foundation for Justice announces its 15th annual Allies for Justice Awards, this year honoring work that promotes environmental justice and sustainable development.  Each of this year's honorees is making significant contributions to tipping the scales into balance in these arenas.

This year's Awards recognize the contributions of: The Center for Earth, Energy & Democracy, WaterLegacy, and Sarah Farley & Betty Tisel.

The Center for Earth, Energy and Democracy - Every community needs an organization like the Center for Earth, Energy and Democracy (CEED), which connects local organizing with the kind of technical expertise that takes movement building to the next level.  CEED is dedicated to bringing justice to energy and environmental sustainability.  In collaboration with grassroots communities, policy makers and researchers, CEED conducts community education, organizing and policy advocacy on important climate change,  and development issues - guided by the principle that all members of society have the right to effectively participate in energy and environmental decisions that affect their health and livelihoods, and their community. 

WaterLegacy is a grassroots citizens' group that is doing its part for future generations. Formed in response to the threat of the first sulfide mine proposed in the State of Minnesota, WaterLegacy organizes, engages citizens, and advocates at a state and federal level to address the human and environmental health impacts of open pit mining. Recognizing that human and natural ecology are intimately connected through our water system, WaterLegacy has found common cause with Native American tribes, environmental groups, and those who fish, hunt, gather wild rice and live near areas potentially affected by mining practices. With over 3,500 members, WaterLegacy has achieved important goals in environmental protection, environmental justice, citizen participation and alliance-building.

Betty Tisel and Sarah Farley are organizing the choir for social justice-both literally and figuratively. Long-time Headwaters supporters, their recent work to promote marriage equality and protect voter rights embodies the heart and soul of what it means to be donor activists and good neighbors. That includes active engagement on a broad range of issues, from LGBTQ rights to global climate change to nurturing the rebirth of MN Community Sings. With commitment, ingenuity and boundless energy, Sarah and Betty are building community and advancing social justice in our state.  

"This year's honorees exemplify the importance of connecting with the community in bringing about social change," said Executive Director Trista Harris. "We are proud to be associated with organizations and individuals like these that are dedicated to promoting environmental equity in our state."

Award recipients will be honored in a celebration Thursday, May 16 at the Nicollet Island Pavilion (40 Power Street, Minneapolis).   

Tickets can be purchased here at the early-bird rate of $60 / $40 for nonprofit activists and young professionals through April 15. For information about sponsorship opportunities contact jodi@headwatersfoundation.org.

Headwaters Foundation is a catalyst for social, racial, economic and environmental justice. The Foundation was established in 1984 with the belief that the power for fundamental social change is in the hands of ordinary people. The Foundation distributes $500,000 annually to groups working for social change. In its 29-year history, Headwaters has provided $9.3 million in grants to the community. Through grantmaking and organizational assistance, Headwaters focuses on grassroots efforts, engaging and partnering with a committed community of donors and allies in its work. Further information on the Foundation can be found at www.headwatersfoundation.org.