The NCORE Suzan Shown Harjo Activist for Systemic Social Justice Award is an annual recognition of the work of an individual or organization whose actions have been transformational on social justice issues of race, ethnicity, and sovereignty at the systemic level by affecting laws, policies, organizational structures, and community practices.

This prestigious award is an annual recognition of the work of an individual or organization whose actions have been transformational on social justice issues of race, ethnicity, and sovereignty at the systemic level by affecting laws, policies, organizational structures, and community practices. Created in 2015, the award is inspired by the life and work of Suzan Shown Harjo, an unwavering champion, thoughtful leader and advocate whose talents as a poet, curator, author, national political leader and legal advisor created action on the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (1978), American Indian Museum Act (1989), American Indian Graves and Repatriation Act (1990) and the elimination of the Native American cultural appropriation in sports mascots.

The bust of Suzan Shown Harjo depicted at the right was sculpted by artist Sohail Shehada in the year the award was created.

NCORE calls on our community to make nominations for the Suzan Shown Harjo Activist for Systemic Social Justice Award.

Nominations were due March 15, 2023.

Previous Award Winners