Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1533049
CTA Peace and Justice Human Rights Award Awarded to a member who has promoted peace and justice within their school and community in areas such as inspiring youth to study and get involved in peace and justice issues and participating in relevant community activities. Greg Lawson ELEMENTARY TEACHER North Cow Creek Educators Assn. and human rights advocate for the Shasta Cascade Service Center Council Greg Lawson was the first teacher to bring an awareness of history from multiple perspectives to a classroom at North Cow Creek School in rural Northern California. Previously, fourth grade students' study of California his- tory began with a minor mention of the Native Californians from the textbooks, which did not include any local tribes. In addition to designing and imple- menting curriculum about issues of peace, justice and international understanding, Lawson has promoted these issues along with cooperation and awareness of other nations of the world in Shasta County and beyond for many years. Before serving as president of North Cow Creek Edu- cators Assn., he was involved with iAct, an anti-genocide educational nonprofit. Lawson was moved to write a song the first time Camp Darfur came to Redding, called "For the Camps." (He made an album with this name and has since written many more songs.) When the 2008 Olympics track and field trials were being held, Lawson was invited to sing at a protest against Chinese investment with the dictator of Sudan, who was leading the genocide against black Africans in the Darfuri region. His songs have been used by anti-genocide groups in the U.S., Africa and Europe. He has presented Darfur fundraiser con- certs with the local Genocide No More nonprofit. Creating awareness and educating people on human rights and justice in a very conservative part of California is not an easy task. Lawson has worked at this for 20 years. He is a founding member of The Shasta Beloved Community, a member of the Shasta County Citizens Advocating Respect (formerly Shasta County Citizens Against Racism; the name was change after a gay couple was murdered in their bed), and The Anti-Racism Task Force. His presence at Redding Pride, Juneteenth and The Sikh Center 's International Day with a CTA booth are just a few of things he did this last year. Human Right Award for LGBTQ+ Advocacy in Honor of Nancy Bailey Awarded to a member whose activities have helped achieve significant equity and equality for the LGBTQ+ community. Nancy Bailey was founder of CTA's Gay and Lesbian Caucus. Philip Charles Crawford LIBRARIAN Association of Carmel Teachers When Carmel High School students are asked how the school recognizes and celebrates everyone, they say the library is the hub for celebration of all people. As the school librarian, Philip Crawford manages the library and organizes special activities. Among his accomplishments: • Established a formal process and committee for responding to challenged books: Crawford's district-wide initiative demonstrates his dedication to promoting diverse per- spectives and ensuring that LGBTQ+ voices and stories are represented in the curriculum and K-12 libraries. • Feminist Club founder and advisor: Crawford's role as the advisor to the Feminist Club showcases his commit- ment to gender equality and advocacy for the rights and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community. He is committed to fostering a more inclusive and accepting environment within Carmel High School. • Be Yourself Club advisor: As advisor of the Be Yourself Club, Crawford supports and empowers students who are exploring their identities and fosters a sense of belonging. This directly contributes to a more inclusive and accepting school culture for LGBTQ+ students. • Social Justice Student Advisory Group: As founder and facilitator of this group, Crawford actively engages with students in discussions and initiatives related to social justice, including LGBTQ+ issues. • Solidarity March for Sexual Assault Awareness: Craw- ford's establishment and role as co-organizer of the annual march shows his dedication to addressing issues of sexual assault and harassment, which are often intertwined with LGBTQ+ experiences. This initiative contributes to a safer and more supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. • Sexual Assault/Harassment Task Force faculty partici- pant: Crawford's participation in the task force highlights his commitment to addressing and preventing sexual assault and harassment within the school community. This is especially important for LGBTQ+ individuals who may be at higher risk for such experiences. • Estrenando member (Assn. of Carmel Teachers equity team): Crawford's involvement on the ACT equity team demonstrates his commitment to equity and inclusivity, which includes addressing the unique challenges and needs of LGBTQ+ students and staff in CUSD. 40 cta.org Feature