Civil Survival was recently honored by the League of Women Voters of Seattle-King County with its 2019 Making Democracy Work Award. The award recognizes organizations and individuals who raise their voices to promote democracy and civil discourse in King County.
The well-attended event was held at the Palace Ballroom and was emceed by Hilary Franz, WA State Commissioner of Public Lands. Sally Jewell, former CEO of REI and the 51st United States Secretary of the Interior under President Obama was the special guest speaker. In addition to Civil Survival, Tandy Williams and Alexandra Baker received awards. Civil Survival Gamechanger Group Leader Michelle Jenkins accepted the award on behalf of the organization and gave an inspirational speech about the power of second chances and the strength that can come from facing adversity. There were very few dry eyes in the house when she concluded. Secretary Jewell kindly commented that she was a hard speaker to follow.
The evening ended with a question and answer period with Secretary Jewell, who spoke about the road to her position as Secretary of the Interior and the importance of getting everyone to participate in important political issues that affect our environment and lives now more than ever. Civil Survival is grateful to be honored for its efforts to raise up the voices of those who face barriers to political participation and looks forward to continuing its work.