Bloomington, Indiana – The Bloomington/Monroe County Human Rights Commission (BMCHRC) is inviting the community to submit nominations for the prestigious 2025 Human Rights Award, which recognizes individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to civil rights, human relations, and fostering civility in the Bloomington area. This award, which has celebrated remarkable individuals since 1997, aims to highlight those who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to improve human rights in the local community.
Nominations are now open and can be submitted online at bton.in/HRA. The deadline for submission is May 1, 2025, at 5 p.m. Nominees must either be residents of Bloomington or the unincorporated areas of Monroe County or represent organizations within these areas.
The BMCHRC is particularly interested in recognizing individuals or groups who have made significant efforts to ensure equal access to rights for all members of the community, celebrate the diversity of Bloomington and Monroe County, or advocate for greater civility and stronger connections among residents. Nominations may be based on a history of work supporting human rights or specific initiatives carried out in 2024.
“This award gives us the opportunity to highlight the impactful work done by community members and organizations who strive for equality, inclusivity, and respect for all,” said a BMCHRC spokesperson. “We encourage nominations for those who have made a real difference in advocating for civil rights and positive change in our community.”
The BMCHRC plays a vital role in promoting civil rights locally by enforcing the Bloomington/Monroe County Human Rights Ordinance, ensuring that these laws are applied fairly and in a timely manner. The Commission also provides educational resources to help community members understand their rights and responsibilities and advocates for policy and legal changes that protect human rights.
This year’s award will continue to shine a light on the hard work and dedication of those who make Bloomington and Monroe County a more inclusive, equitable, and respectful place to live.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the BMCHRC website at bton.in/HRA.
