Photos from the Program

While there are champions like these among us, the human 

rights of our people in Oklahoma will never be denied. We 

were pleased to join the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights 

Alliance in honoring more than 30 human rights heroes 

at the State Capitol on Thursday, December 10th.

The program opened with a ceremonial invocation led by Albert Gray Eagle.

"We The People Oklahoma" were honored for their efforts to call attention to
police violence as well as misconduct in the office of the Tulsa County Sheriff.

John Pettyjohn introduced himself as the son of an undocumented immigrant. A proud Marine (retired), Mr. Pettyjohn described his volunteer work in support of his fellow veterans -- including serving on a suicide intervention team.

Father Paul Zahler, OSB, PhD, presided over the Human Rights Day program. Father Paul is the founder / director of the National Institute on Developmental Delays at St. Gregory's University in Shawnee.

Our award winners are from all over the state of Oklahoma -- Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Norman, Yukon, Grove, Henryetta, Chickasha, McLoud. They represent the diversity of our great state. 

Sarah Adams-Cornell was honored for her efforts and the efforts of other Native American leaders to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day. 

When Isaac Caviness spoke to the audience about his efforts to petition for change in Oklahoma's drug laws, supporters in the gallery raised a banner in support of their initiative. 

Tina Peña is a host of “Temas en Tulsa,” a television program that covers current events and crucial topics of importance to Spanish speaking and English speaking viewers. She was honored at our program. She is shown here sitting in the audience with her father, an immigrant from Peru.

Members of the Gallegos Family received an award given in memory of
their husband and father, Sergio Gallegos. On Facebook, a reader who
attended the Human Rights Day Awards program wrote: "I was particularly
moved by the work of indigenous peoples in Oklahoma and the immigrants
who came to the U.S. with nothing but hope, and have managed to educate
their children and then turn to help others. One family whose parents came
from Mexico with seven children now have seven kids with Associate's Degrees,
five with Bachelor's degrees, two with Master's, and one Juris Doctorate.
Over and over again, we heard how people from Mexico, Peru, India, and other
parts of the globe came here seeking a future for themselves and their children,
and worked hard to achieve that -- and then became citizens, humanitarians
and advocates who make our state and nation better by being here."

See More Photos taken by the Legislative Photographer: 
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/a61rp2yvk92hz6c/AAAfLPlqsK9kPmWpv2SacHaia?dl=0

Acknowledgements

The Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance gratefully acknowledges the contributions of our supporters and co-sponsors, including:

The Oklahoma City chapter of the United Nations Association of the USA
Dedicated to informing, inspiring, and mobilizing the American people to support the ideals and vital work of the United Nations 

Santa Maria Virgen Episcopal Church
Oklahoma City

Following the program at the State Capitiol, participants
enjoyed a delicious lunch at Santa Maria Virgen Episcopal
Church. (Photo courtesy: Otilia Fuentes)

P.E.O.P.L.E. Foundation, Inc.
Oklahoma City

La Oaxaca Bakery
1117 SW 59th Street
Oklahoma City

La Oaxaqueña Panaderia
741 SW 29th Street
Oklahoma City

Cocina De Mino Mexican Restaurant
Oklahoma City

Representative Richard Morrissette
District 92 - Oklahoma City

All Can Do Something

Comments Delivered by
Rabbi Vered L. Harris, RJE,
on the Occasion of Human Rights Day
at the Oklahoma State Capitol, Oklahoma City

On December 10th, we were proud to honor some of the everyday human rights heroes who walk among us in Oklahoma. One of the recipients was Rabbi Vered L. Harris, RJE of Temple B'nai Israel. We thank her for her continuing human rights work in the state of Oklahoma. Her comments captured the essence of Human Rights, and we would like to share them with you.

I am the rabbi, or spiritual leader, at Temple B'nai Israel. Founded in 1903, we are proud to be the longest operating Jewish house of worship in Oklahoma. Thank you Wilfredo Santos-Rivera and the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance for honoring Temple B'nai Israel and me with this award.

Today is the 4th day of the holiday of Hanukkah. During this Festival of Lights Jews remember a time when our ancestors were persecuted for refusing to give up our heritage and assimilate into the larger society. Our own experiences over the past 4,000 years demand we be sensitive to the plights of others.

Over 2,000 years ago the Jewish sage Hillel used to say: (Mishnah, Pirkei Avot 2:5*)

"...a boor cannot fear sin,"

Because he is so wrapped up in only himself he doesn't notice how his actions ripple out and can hurt others,

"nor can an unlearned person be pious."

Because attainment of religious heights requires deep, thoughtful study

"A bashful person cannot learn,"

Because asking questions and speaking up are imperative to true learning,

"nor can an impatient one teach." 

Because to affect others we must be patient with their journeys and overcoming their, as well as our own, ignorance.

An artist's depiction of Hillel the Elder

Hillel continued: "Those who are occupied excessively with business will not become wise."

Because wisdom involves knowing the intimacies and the breadth of the human condition,

And finally:

"In a place where there [is no humanity], endeavor to be [humane]."

How sad that there are many media reports today that show us lots of humans, but not a lot of humanity. What an opportunity for each of us to step up and fulfill Hillel's challenge!

This means we must condemn and fight and support solutions for libelous words against Muslims, discrimination against African-Americans and Blacks, inadequate educational opportunities for those in poverty, food insecurity and hunger, homelessness, disregard for indigenous cultures, insufficient medical care, violence against women, senseless shootings... Don't let our limited time limit your list.

Also in ancient Jewish texts we are told: it is not your duty to complete the work of making this world better, but neither are you free to desist from it (Pirkei Avot 2:16*). None can do everything, but all can do something.

May the accomplishments of the individuals in this room collectively inspire our legislators and civic leaders to consult the spirit and the letter of the Declaration of Human Rights. May we see the day when, as the prayerbook in my tradition says, "we are loved, each of us, for no other reason save we are human." And may we each approach our neighbors with that same intent of making their world better, because, surely, this is how we fulfill the highest purpose of our humanity.

*  The citation in Pirkei Avot may differ according to which publication of the Mishnah one is using.

Our 2015 Human Rights Award Winners

We recognize some of the many human rights heroes who live among us.

There is plenty of evidence that human rights are under attack where we live. All you have to do is turn on the television news. Fear, bigotry, and hatred are a volatile mixture. We worry about the future of our nation.

Yet, there is other evidence to examine -- hopeful signs that human rights are alive and well. Right here in Oklahoma, we see that the dignity of the individual person is being honored. Religious freedom is being protected. The rights of all people are being defended. We are building communities where every man, woman, and child may find equal justice, equal opportunity, and equal dignity without discrimination.

Where is our evidence?

We find it in the people of our great state. In every corner of Oklahoma -- in places close to home, in the world of the individual person -- we recognize the human rights heroes who live among us. They are the champions of human rights where we live.

They defend the weak. They teach justice. They inspire us by their example to recognize our own rights and to uphold the rights of others.

These are our Oklahoma Human Rights Award Winners for 2015:

(Click on the name to read more about them) 

Sarah Adams-Cornell

The Aldridge Foundation

Bishop Edward Konieczny

Isaac Caviness

Jimmy Curry

Hilda De Leon Xavier

Eldon Ray Diaz-Henderson

Carl Downing

Jack Farley

Sundra Flansburg

The Sergio Gallegos Family

Gonzalo Guaman

Rabbi Vered Harris

Debbie Hogue-Downing

Juan Iglesias

Fundacion Iris Violeta

Linda James

Marq Lewis and “We The People Oklahoma”

Silvia Martinez Garcia

Jeanne Mather

Tim O'Connor

OU Unheard

Wanda Jo Peltier Stapleton

Tina Peña

John Pettyjohn

Lynda K. Powell and the Bethel Foundation

Lynn Schusterman

John Wesley Stillsmoking (deceased)

Drs. P.T. and Julia Teska

Kendall Wayne Vowell

Lawrence Brewer Wahpepah (deceased)

World Experiences Foundation

Stacey Wright

The Oklahoma City chapter of the United Nations Association joins the members of the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance in recognizing the contributions and the inspiring examples of these award winners.

This year, once again, the awards program will take place in the chamber of the State House of Representatives:

Thursday, December 10th -- 10am to 12 Noon
State House of Representatives

Oklahoma Capitol 
2300 N Lincoln Blvd 
Oklahoma City, OK   73105

We hope you will plan to be in attendance.

Human Rights Day is celebrated around the world on December 10th. It is the anniversary of the day in 1948 when the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the first global enunciation of human rights and one of the first major achievements of the new United Nations.

Where Do Human Rights Begin?

Eleanor Roosevelt, the driving force behind the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Eldon Ray Diaz-Henderson

Lexington (Joseph Harp Correctional Center)

Nominated by Fr. Paul Zahler, O.S.B., Ph.D. 

In 1958, Eleanor Roosevelt addressed the United Nations. Speaking on the topic of human rights, she said:

"Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home – so close and so small that they cannot be seen on any maps of the world. Yet they are the world of the individual person; the neighborhood he lives in; the school or college he attends; the factory, farm or office where he works. Such are the places where every man, woman, and child seeks equal justice, equal opportunity, equal dignity without discrimination. Unless these rights have meaning there, they have little meaning anywhere. Without concerned citizen action to uphold them close to home, we shall look in vain for progress in the larger world." 
(Eleanor Roosevelt, “The Great Question,” remarks delivered at the United Nations in New York on March 27, 1958)

Fifty-seven years later, Mrs. Roosevelt's words continue to have meaning. She reminds us that human rights exist everywhere, for everyone. They don't cease to matter simply because we live in an out-of-the-way place. Our human dignity -- and our potential to uphold the personal rights and dignity of others -- continues to have significance no matter what situation we find ourselves in.

Eldon Ray Diaz-Henderson resides at the Joseph Harp Correctional Center. He is a prisoner of the State of Oklahoma.

Eldon participates in a program for inmates with learning disabilities. It is called the Total Family Development Daily Living Program. The program was launched with indispensable assistance from the Oklahoma Benedictine Institute on the campus of St. Gregory's University in Shawnee.

As a result of participating in the Total Family Development Program, Eldon has seen changes in himself. He lists them: Needing to Work on My Self Image; Learning to Socialize; Openness; Honesty; Trust; Handling Painful Relationships; and Discovering Worthiness.

Eldon is being recognized with the 2015 Oklahoma Human Rights Award because he reminds us that human rights exist everywhere, for everyone. He reminds us that, because we have reason and conscience, we should act towards one another in a spirit of respectful solidarity.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Among those to be recognized will be Eldon Ray Diaz-Henderson and Kendall Wayne Vowell. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

For more about Kendall Wayne Vowell, see the article HERE.

"All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood."
--Article 1 of the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Wanda Jo Peltier Stapleton

A Constant Champion of Human Rights

Wanda Jo Peltier Stapleton
Oklahoma City
Nominated by Tom Guild

Mrs. Stapleton (Peltier while serving in the Oklahoma Legislature) was elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 1986 and served through 1996. She represented House District 93 in Oklahoma City.

Wanda Jo holds a bachelor of arts from Oklahoma Baptist University in English that she earned in 1963. She received her master's in English from the University of Kansas in 1965.

Prior to running for elected office, she lobbied for the Equal Rights Amendment and helped organize the Oklahoma Women’s Political Caucus of which she served as chair 1980-1984. Peltier has published three books and has served a term as president of the Commission on the Status of Women. She is the mother of two children.

In 2007, Wanda Jo was interviewed for an Oral History Project on women of the Oklahoma Legislature. Here is a revealing excerpt illustrating Wanda Jo's early interest in politics (before she thought about running for a public office):

Interviewer: How early did you get interested in politics? 

Wanda Jo: Well, it was in the 1970’s when my husband and I lived on a farm near Macomb, Oklahoma. That’s when I learned from the League of Women Voters that there were some laws on the books that seriously affected women in my situation -- that is, women working with their husbands in small businesses or in farming operations.
They told me that one of the laws said the husband is the head of the family. He can choose the place and the mode of residence and the wife will conform.

A second one was that Oklahoma is a separate property state as opposed to a community property state. In a community property state, the wife has the legal right to half of the property acquired during the marriage. But in a separate property state, the property belongs to the person who earned the money to buy it, and since the husband was the head of the household, that’s the automatic assumption that the husband owns the property.  

So I got to thinking, “Well, if I died first, this property would belong to my husband free and clear with no questions asked, and if he died first, I would have to prove money or money’s worth to own my very own property.” So that’s when we got a will, and it’s a good thing we did because a few years later, he died of cancer and I would have been in a real mess without that will because of the laws on the Oklahoma books. 

About that time, the Equal Rights Amendment was beginning to come up before the Oklahoma Legislature, and I thought “Now that’s what we need.” So I went with a group of women over to the Capitol to speak and to lobby for the Equal Rights Amendment, and we were so naïve. We thought if we looked good, if we smelled good, if we made sense, it was a done deal. 

Well, about all we got at first were pats on the head -- that is, until we organized. But that’s another story.

For being a constant champion of women's rights and the rights of ordinary people everywhere, Wanda Jo Peltier Stapleton is nominated for his year's Human Rights Award.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Wanda Jo Peltier Stapleton will be among those to be recognized. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

"The peoples of the United Nations have in the Charter reaffirmed their faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person and in the equal rights of men and women...." 
--From the Preamble to the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Labor Leaders

Jimmy Curry and Tim O'Connor

Oklahoma City

Nominated by Wilfredo Santos-Rivera

Each year on Dec. 10, the global community marks International Human Rights Day, anchored in one of the founding documents of the United Nations, which asserts that each one of us, everywhere, at all times is entitled to the full range of human rights.

Eleanor Roosevelt

That founding document, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, also lists “the right to form and to join trade unions” as a basic tenet of human freedom. For many workers around the world, the right to form unions is essential for ensuring the safe working conditions and living wages that are fundamental to human rights.

One of the prime movers behind the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was Eleanor Roosevelt. The widow of President Franklin Roosevelt, she pressed the United States to join and support the United Nations and became one of its first delegates. She served as the first chair of the UN Commission on Human Rights, and oversaw the drafting of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

In addition to being a world figure and diplomat, Eleanor Roosevelt was a union member. As a newspaper columnist, she joined The Newspaper Guild, AFL-CIO. She remained a member for over 25 years. She was a keynote speaker when the AFL-CIO merged into a united organization.

Biographers of Mrs. Roosevelt have noted that her commitment to labor unions stayed with her to the end. Her union card was in her wallet when she died.

On our UNA-OKC website, we observe: "In many ways, the UN and the labor movement are each a product of the same social and historical experiences. In some respects, they grew up together."

Jimmy Curry

It is natural, therefore, that we should honor two labor leaders from our state who exemplify the support that the labor movement has given to the promotion of human rights over many decades.

Jimmy Curry is the president of the Oklahoma AFL-CIO. A graduate of Spartan School of Aeronautics, he worked for nearly 20 years in our state's aeronautics industry before going to work for the AFL-CIO in 1997. In addition to his work for the union, Mr. Curry gives generously to the community. For example, he serves on the board for the United Way of Central Oklahoma. He has served on the advisory board for the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy. He is a winner of the Meritorious Service Award from the Professional Fire Fighters of Oklahoma.

Tim O'Connor

Tim O'Connor is the president of the Central Oklahoma Labor Federation, AFL-CIO. The federation represents 54 local union affiliates in 7 counties in Central Oklahoma. In all, the Federation represents over 16,000 members.

Last year, the Federation filed a petition in Oklahoma City to let voters decide if the minimum wage should be raised from $7.25 to $10.10 an hour. Before a vote could be taken, though, Gov. Mary Fallin signed a bill prohibiting cities across the state from establishing local laws on the topic of wages and employee benefits.

The Federation is focused on public policy issues such as raising the minimum wage, immigration reform, the expansion of Medicaid in Oklahoma, and other issues of social justice that affect working families. They often partner with faith-based and community organizations to pursue these objectives.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Jimmy Curry and Tim O'Connor will be among those to be recognized. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

"(1)  Everyone has the right to work, to free choice of employment, to just and favourable conditions of work and to protection against unemployment.

"(2)  Everyone, without any discrimination, has the right to equal pay for equal work.

"(3)  Everyone who works has the right to just and favourable remuneration ensuring for himself and his family an existence worthy of human dignity, and supplemented, if necessary, by other means of social protection.

"(4)  Everyone has the right to form and to join trade unions for the protection of his interests."

--Article 23 of the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Kendall Wayne Vowell

Kendall Wayne Vowell
Lexington (Joseph Harp Correctional Center)
Nominated by Fr. Paul Zahler, O.S.B., Ph.D. 

In 1990, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on "Basic Principles for the Treatment of Prisoners." The 1990 resolution expanded upon the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, clarifying the values of our global civil society.

The principles for the treatment of prisoners include:

• "All prisoners shall be treated with the respect due to their inherent dignity and value as human beings."
• "Except for those limitations that are demonstrably necessitated by the fact of incarceration, all prisoners shall retain the human rights and fundamental freedoms set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights...." 
• "All prisoners shall have the right to take part in cultural activities and education aimed at the full development of the human personality." 

Kendall Wayne Vowell is an inmate at the Joseph Harp Correctional Center in Lexington.

He was nominated for the 2015 Human Rights Award because of his participation in a personal development program for inmates with developmental disabilities. For the last 29 years, Kendall has been a model student in the program called, the Total Family Development Program.

Currently, there are approximately 1 billion persons living
with disabilities in the world, or 15 per cent of the global
population. In both developed and developing countries,
persons with disabilities are often negatively stereotyped
and are often labelled by their disability or condition – visible
or not. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with
Disabilities prepares the way to change perceptions of
persons with disabilities and promote their abilities as
full and equal participants in the societies in which they live. 

The program was originally started by Kendall and his parents. When it began, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections did not have a rehabilitation program of this kind.

The program is an outgrowth of the Family Living Center on the campus of St. Gregory's University in Shawnee. In order to get the program started, Kendall's parents -- Don and Joann Vowell -- attended classes at St. Gregory's to learn about developmental disabilities in children and adults.

Writing about the program shortly after it was launched in 1987, Kendall Wayne Vowell wrote:

"I have done everything in my power to get this program started. Father Paul Zahler, my parents, and I feel that  this will be a successful and worthwhile program to inspire rehabilitation. I am trying hard to rehabilitate myself."

"I am going to help myself, and others if possible, because I'm tired of being used."

Father Paul Zahler writes about Kendall Wayne Vowell:

"Every human being has the universal right to feel as a worthwhile person," and "Every human being has a developmental right to be part of all humanity." Kendall feels very strongly about the above statements. 

Kendall Vowell dedicated himself to building and promoting the Total Family Development Program -- a special initiative designed for the Oklahoma Department of Corrections system -- not only for himself, but for all men and women with developmental disabilities. He was the role model for the program. 

Kendall proves that the Total Family Development Program is a successful and worthwhile program for inspiring individuals with developmental disabilities in the Oklahoma Correctional system, to rehabilitate them back into society. 

The Arc, a national advocacy organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, reports that, "Individuals with with this disability... constitute a small, but nonetheless growing percentage of suspects / offenders within the criminal justice system. While those with intellectual disability comprise 2% to 3% of the general population, they represent 4% to 10% of the prison population, with an even greater number of those in juvenile facilities and in jails."

According to The Arc: "Some people with intellectual disability commit crimes, not because they have below-average intelligence, but because of their unique personal experiences, environmental influences and individual differences."

"As suspects, individuals with this disability are frequently used by other criminals to assist in law-breaking activities without understanding their involvement in a crime or the consequences of their involvement. They may also have a strong need to be accepted and may agree to help with criminal activities in order to gain friendship. Many individuals unintentionally give misunderstood responses to officers, which increase their vulnerability to arrest, incarceration and possibly execution, even if they committed no crime."

The vulnerability of this population makes it even more essential to ensure that their human rights are understood and respected. By being a leader in the Total Family Development Program, Kendall Wayne Vowell is contributing to human rights in our state. He is inspiring his fellow prisoners to understand and embrace their inherent dignity and value as human beings.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Among those to be recognized will be Kendall Wayne Vowell. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

"Everyone charged with a penal offense has the right to be presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law in a public trial at which he has had all the guarantees necessary for his defense."
--Article 11 of the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Rabbi Vered Harris

Photo by Paul Hellstern - The Oklahoman.

Rabbi Vered Harris
Oklahoma City
Nominated by Wilfredo Santos-Rivera

From Wikipedia:

During World War II, the Allies adopted the Four Freedoms -- freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom from fear, and freedom from want -- as their basic war aims. The United Nations Charter "reaffirmed faith in fundamental human rights, and dignity and worth of the human person" and committed all member states to promote "universal respect for, and observance of, human rights and fundamental freedoms for all without distinction as to race, sex, language, or religion." 
 
When the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany became apparent after the war, the consensus within the world community was that the United Nations Charter did not sufficiently define the rights to which it referred. A universal declaration that specified the rights of individuals was necessary to give effect to the Charter's provisions on human rights.

Ever since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the UN General Assembly in December, 1948, the world has agreed that freedom of religion shall be protected as a human right.

As a representative of Temple B'Nai Israel, Rabbi Vered Harris is a champion of human rights in our state. The good people of Temple B'Nai Israel have supported human rights in Oklahoma over many years and in many different ways. For example, in January of this year, the Temple hosted the Martin Luther King Cross Cultural Program in collaboration with the Oklahoma City Martin Luther King Holiday Coalition.

Rabbi Vered Harris became Temple B'nai Israel's spiritual leader in 2012. She has a master's degree in Hebrew letters and a master's degree in Jewish education. Harris was ordained at the Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion.

Rabbi Harris is the fifth rabbi in the congregation’s 111 year long history.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Rabbi Vered Harris will be among those to be recognized. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

"Disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind." 
--From the Preamble to the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Gonzalo Guaman

Gonzalo Guaman
Oklahoma City
Nominated by Wanda Jo Peltier

Gonzalo Guaman is a naturalized U.S. citizen, born in Bolivia. He helped to start the Hispanic Soccer League in Oklahoma City. He recognizes the value of organized sports as a tool to promote youth development.

Wanda Jo Peltier writes: 

"Human rights are those belonging to each individual. For example, freedom of religion, speech, and the freedom to peaceably assemble – all without interference by the government.
"Gonzalo expresses, supports and exemplifies the meaning of human rights when he faithfully attends a weekly luncheon. He shakes hands with everyone there. This personal attention affirms each person’s humanity, which is worthy of human rights." 

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Gonzalo Guaman will be among those to be recognized. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

1. States Parties recognize the right of the child to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child and to participate freely in cultural life and the arts.
2. States Parties shall respect and promote the right of the child to participate fully in cultural and artistic life and shall encourage the provision of appropriate and equal opportunities for cultural, artistic, recreational and leisure activity.

--Article 31 of the
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

The Rt. Rev. Edward Konieczny

The Rt. Rev. Edward Konieczny
Oklahoma City
Nominated by José R. Escalera 

From the website of the Episcopal Church:

“The Rt. Rev. Dr. Edward J. Konieczny was elected the fifth Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma on May 5, 2007 and consecrated on September 15, 2007.

“Bishop Ed, as he is known, was born December 20, 1954 at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane Washington….

“Following graduation from High School Bishop Ed attended college part-time while beginning a career in Law Enforcement. From 1975 until 1992, Bishop Ed served as a Police Officer with the Garden Grove and Anaheim [California] Police Departments. His assignments varied from Uniformed Patrol to Child Abuse/Sexual Assault to Vice. Bishop Ed received numerous commendations and was cited twice for Meritorious Service….

“Bishop Ed was ordained a Deacon and Priest in 1994 following completion of his Master of Divinity Degree from Church Divinity School of the Pacific in Berkeley, California. Since that time Bishop Ed has served churches in Texas and Colorado.

“In addition to his work in the church, Bishop Ed has served on numerous boards and committees including: Hillcrest Hospital Samaritan Board, Providence Hospital Hospice Board, Boy Scouts of America, Chamber of Commerce, Baylor University School of Social Services….”

José R. Escalera writes:

"The Rt. Rev. is the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of OK.  He has provided strong leadership and support to the Hispanic mission within the Diocese.  The doors of our churches are always open and ready to serve this community in time of need.  One such example is the Sta. Maria Virgen Church on the Southside, OKC, under his support aid was provided to the Tornado victims."

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Bishop Ed will be honored for his contributions to human rights in our state. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

"Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance." 

--Article 18 of the 

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Pursuing the American Dream

Sergio and Guillermina Gallegos

The Sergio Gallegos Family
(Honoring Sergio Gallegos posthumously)
Oklahoma City
Nominated by Wilfredo Santos-Rivera

The Sergio Gallegos Family has a long history of community involvement. The family was particularly active in the field of education. As a family and as individuals, they supported civil and human rights causes.

The family represents and exemplifies a Hispanic family that worked hard and achieved the American dream. They continue to serve the community and are a credit to the Mexican-American community of OKC, individually and collectively.

Mr. Sergio Gallegos passed away on February 16, 2015. He was born in a poor neighborhood in Mexico City in 1939. At the age of 8, he began selling chiclets on the streets of Mexico City to help provide economically for his mother and siblings.

At the age of 15, Sergio became an apprentice jeweler under the tutelage of his uncle. It was this talent that gave Mr. Gallegos his career. He became known as one of the best diamond setters in the United States and Mexico.

Employment in the United States beckoned, and Mr. Gallegos came to work for prestigious jewelry companies such as Cartier, Tiffany’s, and Samuel Gordon Jewelers.

Mr. Gallegos valued education, seeing it as the gateway to success. He wanted for his children to get an Associates degree and beyond. As a result of his encouragement, one obtained an Associate degree, one obtained an Executive Management certificate, two earned a Master’s, four received Bachelor’s degrees, and one obtained a Juris Doctorate.

Sergio Gallegos is survived by his wife, Guillermina Gallegos, his children and his many wonderful grandchildren.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. The Gallegos family will be among those to be honored. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

"It is essential to promote the development of friendly relations between nations."

--From the Preamble to the 

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

John Wesley Stillsmoking

John Wesley Stillsmoking
McLoud
Nominated by Fr. Paul Zahler, O.S.B., Ph.D. 

Mr. Stillsmoking is being honored posthumously. He died in 2015.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human
Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from
around our great state. A recognition program will take
place at the State Capitol.For more information, see:
"Celebrate Human Rights."

John Wesley Stillsmoking was an artist, an actor, and a man who served his community as a volunteer at the Oklahoma City VA Hospital, and as a member of the Native American Elders Council.

A member of the Blackfeet Nation of Montana, as well as a descendant of the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma, John attended many pow wows, honor dances and gatherings throughout the United States in support of Native Veterans. As a leader of the Warriors Honor Guard, he would drive long distances to help honor his fellow veterans and would often take veterans to Native American gatherings. He was a loyal friend and regularly made visits and telephone calls to check up on his family and buddies.

John’s hobbies included drawing, writing, painting, working on model cars, reading, bead work, and participating in the pow wows. A graduate of McLoud High School, John painted the Indian head emblem for McLoud High School. John and his brother Jeff were actors in the movie, “The Powwow Highway.”

John was 47 years of age at the time of his death. He died among family and friend at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Oklahoma City after a short illness.

"Indigenous peoples and individuals are free and equal to all other peoples and individuals and have the right to be free from any kind of discrimination, in the exercise of their rights, in particular that based on their indigenous origin or identity."
--Article 2 of the
United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Jack Farley and Linda James

Celebrating the Working People of Oklahoma

Jack Farley, 1948 - 2014,  is being honored posthumously
Oklahoma City
Nominated by Wilfred Santos-Rivera

Jack Farley was a man who spent his life helping others. He died in October, 2014, leaving behind a legacy of service to his community.

Jack Farley

Jackie Leroy Farley was born in 1948 to Joe Bob and Olga Oleta Farley in Tipton, Oklahoma. After graduating from Tipton High School and the University of Oklahoma, Jack served a stint in the U.S. Navy. He and his wife, Linda James, owned L.L. James Advertising in Oklahoma City. He also operated newspapers in Okemah and Piedmont. Jack was a member of the Graphic Communications Council / International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

Jack has spent his life working tirelessly to help other people. He saw his union activism as a form of service to his community. He promoted labor unions throughout the state and nation. He marched in picket lines. He also helped people with the Lung Association, United Way, and even the local food drive in Oklahoma City, along with numerous others. He was named the Veteran of the Year by the Oklahoma Democratic Party.

Friends who knew him have no doubt that Jack Farley embraced and upheld the principles embodied in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This was expressed most clearly by Jack's sympathy for the plight of the worker. He believed that everyone has the right to freely choose their employment. He also believed that every worker is entitled to just and favorable conditions of work.

Jack Farley used his skills as a graphic designer and a union printer to support himself, his family, and his community.

Jack is survived by his wife of many years, Linda James, who is also being recognized by this award. 

Linda and Jack

Linda writes, "Once Jack and I met, we were inseparable. We lived together and worked together up until his passing. What he did, I did."

She mentions the support they have given to the Oklahoma Cancer Society, the Salvation Army, the Food Bank, as well as various other organizations.

As a couple, Jack and Linda were honored with the Legends of Labor Award given by the Central Oklahoma Labor Federation in May, 2015.

Linda is continuing to support Oklahomans in their fight for the human rights that are inherent to all human beings, whatever their nationality, place of residence, sex, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other status -- the rights we are all equally entitled to without discrimination.

She celebrates the working people of Oklahoma every day.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Linda James will be among those to be recognized, along with her late husband. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

"Everyone, without any discrimination, has the right to equal pay for equal work."
--From Article 23 of the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Dr. Carl Downing and Debbie Hogue-Downing

Debbie Hogue-Downing speaking to the Oklahoma City Council.

Dr. Carl Downing and Debbie Hogue-Downing

Rentiesville / Oklahoma City

Nominated by Wilfredo Santos-Rivera

Dr. Carl Downing died in 2014, following a long career as an educator, community leader, and advocate.

Dr. Carl Downing

Carl was a member of the old Oklahoma Human Rights Commission. He was the recipient of numerous prestigious awards including: the Oklahoma Education Association's Kate Frank Award for rendering courageous and significant service to advancing teacher welfare rights and professionalism, the NEA Leo Reano Award for leadership and profoundly impacting education for American Indian and Alaskan Native students, and the Making Mathematics Work for Minorities Award from the National Academy of Science.

As a professor at UCO, Carl followed his passion of contributing to education, especially advocating the education of Indian children. Selected by the NEA, Carl represented the United States as a guest of the Japanese teaching union.

A firm believer in charitable and community service, Carl directed the Feed the Hungry Program, a collaborative project with Leland Clegg and NW Christian churches. In addition, he volunteered for the Clegg Mobile Meals Program, was president of the Clegg Men's Breakfast Program, and served as a Tornado Relief volunteer. Carl also enjoyed his service at the Oklahoma History Center, the Oklahoma Democratic Party, and the Mental Health Association Board.

Debbie Hogue-Downing

Debbie Hogue-Downing is a human rights champion in her own right. 

She is a retired educator who, for many years, was active in the National Education Association (NEA). For example, Debbie served on the NEA Minority Affairs Committee, working for the inclusion of justice for all minorities. She was also active in Women's Rights issues. She traveled across Oklahoma and the USA  on behalf of NEA and the Oklahoma Education Association as part of the Women's Leadership Cadre empowering women.

Debbie writes, "I was a very active member of the NEA American Indian / Alaska Native Caucus --  including being chair for several years.  We advocated to change the mascot of the Washington football team and also to encourage book companies to tell the real story about Native Americans."

She also contributed as a volunteer to the Martin Luther King, Jr., Holiday committee (organizers of the annual MLK Day parade and celebration in Oklahoma City).

Presently, Debbie serves as the President of the Federation of Democratic Women. She also serves on the Advisory Council to the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women.

Earlier this year, when the Oklahoma City Council was considering a proposal to recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Debbie spoke eloquently in favor of the measure.

On December 10th, the Oklahoma Universal Human Rights Alliance will honor human rights heroes from around our great state. A recognition program will take place at the State Capitol. Debbie Hogue-Downing will be among those to be recognized, along with her late husband. More information about the program can be found here: "Celebrate Human Rights."

See a video of Debbie speaking in favor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, here …
https://www.facebook.com/ipdOKC/videos/vb.755727971222349/772014816260331/?type=2&theater

Read Carl Downing’s obituary at: http://legacy.newsok.com/obituaries/oklahoman/obituary.aspx?pid=171039627#sthash.3sVJYh34.dpuf

"It is essential, if man is not to be compelled to have recourse, as a last resort, to rebellion against tyranny and oppression, that human rights should be protected by the rule of law."

--From the Preamble to the 

Universal Declaration of Human Rights