Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Tom Calma, has urged Indigenous Australians to nominate for the prestigious 2007 Human Rights Medal and Awards.

Since 1987, the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission (HREOC) has recognised the often extraordinary contribution made to Australian society by a variety of men and women committed to issues of human rights, social justice and equality through these awards.

“These HREOC awards are increasingly becoming the best way for Australians to acknowledge the enormous tenacity, strength and commitment required to champion human rights in Australia,” Commissioner Calma said.

“I know many Indigenous people who would easily satisfy the eligibility requirements for these awards - which are now in their 20th year.”

Entrants need to have made an outstanding contribution to the promotion and protection of human rights in Australia by: an action to overcome discrimination or infringements of human rights; encouraging greater harmony between people of different race, sex, sexuality, age or ethnic origin; promoting equal opportunity for people with a disability; or increasing awareness of issues of injustice or inequality.

“As well as recognising those who have worked to enhance the rights of Indigenous Australians, the awards also acknowledge a range of other efforts,” Mr Calma said.

“Each year HREOC receives outstanding nominations for the Human Rights Medal and award categories of Law, Community (individual and organisation), Arts Non-Fiction, Print Media, Television and Radio.”

To nominate the achievements of an individual or organisation simply fill in the entry form located at about www.humanrights.gov.au/about/hr_awards/ or phone 02 9284 9618 and forward supporting material by 5 October, 2007.

But don’t just nominate someone, please join us at the gala luncheon ceremony at the Sheraton on the Park in Sydney on Monday, 10 December to hear the winners announced and show your support for the 20th anniversary of these special awards.

Media personality Julie McCrossin will MC the event and HREOC President John von Doussa will deliver the annual Human Rights Day Oration. For information on tickets contact 02 9284 9618 or go to www.humanrights.gov.au/about/hr_awards/

To receive regular updates on the 2007 Awards, ceremony, shortlists and winners, join the Human Rights Awards electronic mailing list – also on HREOC’s website.