Central ND News

Micah Olson and Sanford Health have been honored with the 2023 Humanitarian Awards by the City of Bismarck’s Human Relations Committee (HRC). The awards were presented at the final City Commission meeting of 2024.

The HRC annually recognizes an individual and a business or non-profit organization that demonstrate leadership in human rights. This recognition is for those who educate, identify, protect, and promote personal dignity, focusing on eliminating discriminatory barriers to help individuals reach their full potential.

Olson serves as an attorney for North Dakota Protection and Advocacy, advocating for individuals with disabilities. He has also worked at Independence Inc. Center for Independent Living in Minot. “Micah uses his own experience with his disability to motivate his work and give a voice to issues affecting the disabled,” said the anonymous nominator of Olson. “He has testified on bills before the state legislature on issues such as accessible housing and transportation. He continually fights for what is right, no matter how difficult the challenge may be and is not one to back away.”

Sanford Health is among Bismarck's largest employers. Since 2021, it has prioritized diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to create meaningful impacts on its employees, patients, and community. Natasha Smith nominated her workplace stating, “When a healthcare organization prioritizes these efforts, the outcome is that underrepresented populations feel valued and comfortable to seek out preventative healthcare. This has an impact on the health disparities we know exist in our communities.”

The HRC aims to foster inclusion, equality, and accessibility through education and outreach while recognizing diverse community values. For more information about award recipients visit the Human Relations Committee webpage.