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ACLU SoCal to Honor Mark Ruffalo and Brittney Griner at Bill of Rights Awards
The American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California (ACLU SoCal) is set to honor actor and activist Mark Ruffalo, along with Brittney Griner and her wife Cherelle, at this year’s Bill of Rights Awards.
Marcus Benigno, chief communications and marketing officer for ACLU SoCal, emphasized the organization’s commitment to civil liberties during this critical election season, stating, “While we work to defend our freedoms this election season, know that the ACLU – over a hundred years strong – will be ready whatever the outcome. This year’s Bill of Rights Awards recipients reflect the persistence and zeal of our enduring mission. We are proud to celebrate them.”
Mark Ruffalo will be recognized for his significant contributions to the realms of creative expression and environmental advocacy. As a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, the “Avengers” actor has consistently used his platform to promote justice on multiple fronts, including climate change, LGBTQ rights, and racial equality. In addition to his accomplishments as an Emmy winner and four-time Oscar nominee, Ruffalo has both acted in and produced works that shine a light on indigenous rights and the pressing concerns of communities most impacted by environmental degradation.
In a 2020 interview with Variety, Ruffalo reflected on the origins of his activism, revealing that his passion for social justice ignited during the Gulf War in the 1990s. He recounted feeling outraged by the perceived injustices and misinformation surrounding the conflict, which propelled him into a lifelong commitment to advocacy.
Brittney Griner, a celebrated two-time Olympic gold medalist and WNBA champion, will also be honored for her courageous stance against injustice, particularly regarding bullying and gender pay equity. Griner’s high-profile experience in 2022, when she was detained in Russia on drug charges, thrust her into the spotlight, raising awareness about issues of wrongful imprisonment and the need for justice. Her wife, Cherelle, an attorney, played a crucial role in advocating for her release, engaging directly with President Joe Biden and other leaders to secure Griner’s freedom after a 10-month ordeal.
In a revealing NPR interview from May, Griner opened up about her mental struggles during incarceration, describing how isolation led to overwhelming thoughts of despair regarding her future and the well-being of her loved ones. Her journey emphasizes the importance of resilience and the fight for justice.
The ACLU Foundation of Southern California will host its annual Bill of Rights Awards on November 10 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills. Details regarding the event’s presenters and performers will be released as the date approaches.
Source
variety.com