WOLA honors organizations or individuals who have worked tirelessly to promote human rights, democracy, and justice in Latin America. Our awardees are organizations or individuals who exemplify a commitment to WOLA’s vision for the future, where human rights and social justice are the foundation for public policy.
Justicia y Paz, the Inter-Church Commission for Justice and Peace in Colombia
For playing a key role in working for peace and supporting victims of the violence and displacement
Tim Rieser, Foreign Policy Aide to Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT)
For his commitment to human rights during his 30 years working in Congress
U.S. Congressman George Miller
For his steadfast commitment to human rights and social justice
Dr. Claudia Paz y Paz, former Attorney General from Guatemala
For her unfailing pursuit of justice and accountability
On November 12, 2014, WOLA celebrated it’s 40th anniversary with its largest gala to date. Over 420 guests gathered at Washington’s Union Station to honor two long-time allies of WOLA, Congressman George Miller and Claudia Paz y Paz. For video highlights from the evening, please click here.
U.S. Senator Tom Harkin
For his 40 years of congressional leadership on human rights in Latin America
Ambassador Milton Romani Gerner
For pioneering the search for effective, human rights-respecting alternatives to the failed war on drugs
Marcela Turati
For her courageous coverage of Mexico’s drug-related violence and her work to protect journalists who give a voice to its victims
On October 24, 2013, the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) held its annual Human Rights Awards Ceremony and Benefit Gala at the French Embassy in Washington, D.C. The WOLA Human Rights Award is an opportunity to honor inspiring people for their deep commitment to human rights and social justice in Latin America. To see highlights from the evening, please click here. To see photos of the event, please click here or scroll to the bottom of the page. The event was highlighted in the February, 2014 issue of Washington Life Magazine, which can be seen here.
Helen Mack
For her work to professionalize the police and judicial system in Guatemala
El Faro
For investigative journalism that shines a spotlight on corruption and organized crime
PASSOS Education and Training Center
For innovative community programs to stop crime before it starts by working with at-risk youth in El Salvador
On September 19, 2012, WOLA awarded its sixth annual Human Rights Awards as part of its Human Rights Awards Ceremony and Benefit Gala, which took place at the Maison Francais in Washington, DC. The evening, based around the theme “Overcoming Violence: The New Human Rights Agenda,” celebrated the innovative work done by our honorees to address the growing rates of violence in their communities
There are no upcoming events scheduled soon. Be sure to check out all our past events.
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