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Reviewed: January 6th, 2012
Gerald L. Swain Award
Background
The Gerald Swain Award was established in memory of a committed activist whom the Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs was honored to have as a staff accountant for many years. The purpose of this award is to honor an individual working “outside of the box” to end sexual assault, as Gerald did. This person should be someone who does not provide direct sexual assault services as their primary employment – this person could be a volunteer, community activist, or other person not employed by a community sexual assault agency. Gerald’s work as a community activist outside of WCSAP continues to inspire us. This award will provide Community Sexual Assault Programs with a wonderful opportunity to recognize someone in their community who has been dedicated to sexual assault work.
In a community of protesters, letter writers, chanters and rally-ers, Gerald was a quiet activist. Grounded with a deep commitment and passion for social justice, Gerald was part of the WCSAP fabric pushing us to believe we could accomplish the difficult work ahead of us. His competence, dedication, support and humor made it possible for the coalition to grow into its responsibilities and possibilities. He will always be remembered as a part of our WCSAP Family and as a part of our community of activists.
Thank you for helping us to honor Gerald’s memory by nominating someone from your community who is working towards the elimination of sexual assault. Your thoughtful nomination allows us to recognize those whose work so often goes unrecognized, and strengthens the sexual assault movement.
Nomination Form Instructions
The Gerald L. Swain Award is named in memory of Gerald L. Swain who dedicated his life to fighting for social justice. A passionate activist, Gerald was WCSAP’s staff accountant from 1995 until his death on April 2, 2000.
This award can be presented to the nominee in their community at a time best suited for the award recipient and WCSAP Staff. This may be a great opportunity to present at your Sexual Assault Awareness Month activity and the recipient will also be honored in the WCSAP Newsletter & Website.
Please submit nominations for those individuals in Washington State who have demonstrated a commitment to sexual assault advocacy and activism. The individual need not have “Sexual Assault Advocate” as her/his professional title. The person should be someone whose day-to-day efforts on behalf of sexual assault survivors - or on behalf of sexual violence prevention - is an inspiration to others. Current WCSAP staff and members of the WCSAP Board of Directors are not eligible for nomination for this award.
For this award the nominee should demonstrate:
- A commitment to WCSAP’s philosophy and mission (listed below).
- Being an advocate and activist for the elimination of sexual violence.
- A capacity to inspire others.
- Courage, perseverance, and dedication in regards to sexual violence work.
- Giving contributions as a community member who has not formally been a part of sexual assault advocacy.
Please complete the nomination information below and return by February 17, 2012 to Email: joshua@wcsap.org or Fax:(360) 786-8707. You will be notified by February 25th as to who received the award.
WCSAP Mission Statement
WCSAP is committed to fostering a culture of respect, dignity and autonomy for all individuals. We recognize that disrespect, ignorance and the abuse of disparities in power are the roots of sexual violence. To that end, WCSAP endeavors to engage with agencies and individuals who share our commitment.