Central ND News

The City of Bismarck's Human Relations Committee (HRC) is now accepting nominations for its annual Humanitarian Award. This award acknowledges an adult, youth, and a business or non-profit organization that have demonstrated leadership in human and civil rights over the past year. The focus is on recognizing those who educate, identify issues, and address human rights within the community.

This year, the HRC has adjusted its nomination timeline for 2024. Previously, nominations were accepted in August with awards presented in December. "The Human Relations Committee identified the disconnect of a person or organization recognized in December, for work they had done 12 to 24 months earlier," said Sargianna Wutzke, the committee’s chair. "By moving the nomination closer to the start of the year, this allows the award to be more connected to the good work being done in our community."

A new category for youth nominations has been introduced this year. "There are so many impactful ways the youth in our community contribute. Maybe it is through a service organization or school project. Maybe they have just decided they want to make a difference," said Wutzke. "With all the directions youth are pulled these days, recognizing that selflessness and effort really aligns with the spirit of this award."

Nominations will be accepted until Sunday, April 20. They can be submitted via an online form on the City of Bismarck website by 11:59 PM on April 20 or emailed with all necessary information by the same deadline. Physical submissions can be dropped off at the Bismarck Administration Department by 5 PM on April 17 or mailed to their office; however, mailed applications must arrive by April 20 to be eligible.

Last year's recipients included Sanford Health and Micah Olson. Sanford Health was acknowledged for initiatives supporting underrepresented populations in accessing preventative healthcare and overcoming health disparities. Micah Olson was recognized for his advocacy work using his personal experience with disability.

The HRC aims to foster inclusion, equality, and accessibility through education and outreach while highlighting diversity's value within the community.

For more details about the committee and previous award recipients, visit their page on the City of Bismarck's website.