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Justice Circle Durham, NC (September 18, 2025) — Every year, the Defenders of Justice Awards Gala brings people together to celebrate the inspiring leaders who refuse to back down in the fight for justice. This year, as communities across North Carolina face mounting threats to civil rights, economic security, and health care access, the need to lift up these bold and resilient changemakers has never been greater.
On Sunday, September 21 at 6:30 PM, the NC Justice Center will honor five outstanding leaders at the 2025 Defenders of Justice Awards Gala at the Washington Duke Inn in Durham. From defending civil liberties and mobilizing immigrant communities to expanding health care and championing economic justice, this year’s honorees embody the courage and determination needed to build a fairer, more inclusive North Carolina.
“These leaders are on the front lines every day — in courtrooms, at the State Capitol, and in neighborhoods across the state — fighting for an economy and a democracy that works for everyone. Even in challenging times, these leaders remind us that progress is possible when people come together and push for change that leaves no one behind.” – Dana Mangum, Interim Executive Director, NC Justice Center
2025 Defenders of Justice Award Honorees:
- ACLU of North Carolina — Protecting civil liberties for decades, with victories expanding LGBTQ rights, reproductive freedom, and access to health care.
- Siembra NC — Mobilizing Latinx and working-class communities, winning wage justice, registering thousands of voters, and building grassroots leadership.
- Kody Kinsley — As NC Secretary of Health & Human Services, leading Medicaid expansion, behavioral health reforms, and a first-in-the-nation medical debt relief initiative.
- Carlene McNulty and Willette Crews — Lifetime Champions of Justice whose decades of advocacy have transformed consumer protections, disability rights, veterans’ services, and legal access for low-income families.
The Sept. 21 Gala will unite advocates for justice in celebrating these standard-bearers who have advanced progressive and inclusive policies to promote equity and opportunity in our state.
Contact: Kim-Marie McLellan, Director of Gifts, Endowment and Communications, at kim_marie@ncjustice.org