Organizations, groups and individuals from all regions of the world who have been working for the promotion and protection of “human rights for all people irrespective of sexual orientation or expression, gender identity or expression, and/or HIV status” can be nominated for the 2010 Felipa Award. It is named after Felipa De Souza who was suffered punishment in Brazil as far back the 14th century for maintaining sexual relationships with other women. The award is organized by the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC) to recognize groups and individuals who have been struggling under difficult conditions for promoting human rights in their areas. Both new and established organizations can apply for the award. However, IGLHRC will ensure that applicant organizations have stability and proven record in the field.
The award is an opportunity for networking and raising awareness about one’s work and has the possibility of raising funding resources. The award will be given out at the IGLHRC’s signature fundraising even called A Celebration of Courage to be held jointly in San Francisco and New York City. In addition to covering travel and accommodation to participate in the event, the winner will also get a cash award.
The criteria for the award include:
a) Demonstrated leadership and a record of outstanding achievements in the field of human rights and issues of sexual orientation or expression, gender identity or expression, and/or HIV status
b) Practical work in the field and in difficult circumstances
c) Demonstrated capacity to establish links and build lasting coalitions with others struggling for human rights, gender equality, and/or social and economic justice
d) Predominant activities in developing countries and/or with marginalized communities
e) Potential impact of the award in supporting and strengthening candidates’ work in the future
Nomination forms can be downloaded from the IGLHRC website and can be emailed, faxed or mailed. The last date to submit the nominations is 1 October 2009. For more information, visit this link.
