Arizona activist of the month: Isabel Garcia

TUCSON -- More like activist of the decade. Isabel Garcia has been out on the front lines for human rights for a long time. She serves with strength, smarts, and dignity.

Isabel was recently selected as the National Human Rights Award Recipient by National Human Rights Commission in México.

from Coalición de Derechos Humanos, Nov 24 06: Coalición de Derechos Humanos is extremely proud to announce that Isabel Garcia, one of its Co-Chairs, has been selected by the Comisión Nacional de Derechos Humanos (National Human Rights Commission) to receive the Premio Nacional de Derechos Humanos 2006 (National Human Rights Award 2006). The Premio is bestowed by the independent human rights commission chartered by the Mexican Constitution upon individuals who have distinguished themselves in the promotion and defense of human rights.

According to the official announcement of the Human Rights Commission, Isabel will receive the award in México City on December 13, 2006, in recognition of her passionate and effective organizing and advocacy for respect for human rights, particularly on behalf of migrants along the U.S./México border.

“Although it is quite a personal honor, this award is really for our entire community of human rights warriors, especially the members of the Coalición de Derechos Humanos who have consistently and courageously fought alongside with those who face the harshest abuse and violence” says Garcia. “It is particularly gratifying given that our position and analysis have always been very critical of both the US and México in their dealing with the issues of migration, militarization, and the economic dislocation of migrants. We are hopeful that this recognition will serve us in promoting policies that are based, first and foremost, on the respect for the humanity of each individual.”

Members of Coalición de Derechos Humanos have worked tirelessly for nearly thirty years to promote respect for human and civil rights and fight the militarization of the southern border region, discrimination, and human rights abuses by federal, state, and local law enforcement officials affecting U.S. and non-U.S. citizens alike.