FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACTS:
March 5, 2013 Frank Penela (850) 488-7082 ext.1011
Florida Commission on Human Relations Announces Winners of Poster Contest
~Celebrating Civil Rights Heroes spotlights Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame ~
Tallahassee–The Florida Commission on Human Relations (FCHR) announced today that three middle school students have been awarded prizes for the Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame, Celebrating Civil Rights Heroes in Florida poster contest. The contest spotlights the Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame, which serves as a permanent reminder of the courage and sacrifices of civil rights pioneers who helped to build today’s Florida.
Middle and high school students were challenged to design and create a poster that reflects the importance of civil rights in Florida and highlight individuals who have made significant contributions toward Florida’s progress and achievements in human and civil rights.
“We are very excited to award these young Floridians for their knowledge of the civil rights struggles that took place in Florida,” said Michelle Wilson, executive director of the Florida Commission on Human Relations. “Their originality, imagination, and talent should inspire us all.”
The winners are:
1st place- Mr. Ricardo Morrell, Seventh grader, Centennial Middle School, Cutler Bay, FL
2nd Place-Miss Neha Manikal, Seventh grader, RJ Murray Middle School, St. Augustine, FL
3rd Place-Mr. Muhammad Ayyasy, Seventh grader, Fairview Middle School, Tallahassee, FL
Each youth will receive a prepaid gift card of $100, $50 and $25 respectively. Their posters will also be recognized at the Capitol during the Florida Civil Rights Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on April 24, 2013, and will be displayed throughout the day’s event.
The Florida Commission on Human Relations, established in 1969, is the state agency charged with administering the Florida Civil Rights Act and Fair Housing Act. Fair treatment, equal access and mutual respect are the benchmarks of the Commission’s commitment. Through education and partnerships, the Commission works to prevent discrimination and costly litigation through teaching best business practices and fostering understanding amongst Floridians.