Nominations are now being accepted for six awards that will be presented at the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) Dr. Martin Luther King Human and Civil Rights Celebration on January 17, 2026.
The available awards include the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Human and Civil Rights Award, which is given by the NJEA Human and Civil Rights Committee to individuals, groups, or organizations working in civil rights, including eligible NJEA members.
The Equality Champion Award is conferred by the NJEA Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Committee. It recognizes a member who has made a significant impact on education and equal opportunity for those facing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
The Elizabeth A. Allen Women in Education Award is named after NJEA’s first female president and is given by the NJEA Women in Education Committee. This award honors an individual living or working in New Jersey who promotes women’s rights and equality, especially within education.
Another honor, the Dr. Judith Owens Spirit Award from the NJEA Minority Leadership and Recruitment Committee, recognizes a member who has championed ethnic minority rights and issues with a notable impact on education and equal opportunity for those facing ethnic discrimination.
The Urban Educator Activist Award from the NJEA Urban Education Committee acknowledges active or retired members who have supported urban education and advocated for stakeholders in urban communities.
Finally, the Marie Blistan Advocacy Award from the Exceptional Children Committee may be awarded to up to two recipients each year—one active or retired NJEA member and one community member—who have worked to advance rights for children and adults with exceptionalities.
Nomination forms must be submitted by November 1, 2025. Criteria details and nomination instructions can be found at njea.org/mlk-hcr-nominations.
For further information about these awards or the nomination process, contact Colleen Lopez at clopez@njea.org or call 609-599-4561, extension 2290.
