Thank you to everyone who joined us on Thursday, March 20 for our annual celebration of Architects of Justice, a night to honor the movement leaders building the Beloved Community in Orange County. 170 guests, spanning the range of all the facets of Southern California’s social movements, gathered at Harbor Christian Church in Newport Beach. We spent the night in community, shared a meal, and sang along with artist Eric Lige who accompanied the event with piano-scored song.
This year, we recognized three distinct Architects of Justice honorees who stood out last year for their dedication to the struggle for justice, dignity and freedom. These honorees came to the stage to share stories from their work, what fuels their fight, and connections they have gained along the way. It is our hope that this recognition conveys our admiration, and stands as a symbol of CLUE’s commitment to accompany you through the challenges we face ahead.
Peg Corely, Executive Director of the LGBTQ Center of Orange County, received the AOJ award on behalf of the Center’s decades long presence as a safe harbor for Queer and Trans people. Peg spoke about the Center’s focus on being a safe space for queer people who are multiply marginalized within this country by intersecting identities.
Haitian Bridge Alliance Executive Director, Guerline Jozef received our second award of the night, honoring the Alliance as a leading voice in addressing the systemic injustices faced by Haitians and other migrants affected by immigration policies both within and outside the United States. Haitian Bridge Alliance has been an important partner in CLUE’s work supporting asylum seekers and refugees.
UFCW 324 Disney Workers received the third acknowledgement of the night. Last year, Disney workers represented by a coalition of unions won a $233 million settlement against Disney, marking the largest class action wage theft case in California history. Together, they fought for Disney workers to be treated with dignity and respect on the job.
As we close out this year’s celebration, we invite those who were unable to attend to consider sustaining CLUE’s work through a monthly gift. Whatever your capacity is for monetary support, it is appreciated, and helps continue building your justice-making community.