The Pauli Murray Award

Established in 1990, the Pauli Murray Award commemorates the life of the late Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray (1910-1985), a distinguished and remarkable person who confronted discrimination, racism, and sexism in her own life.  

The Pauli Murray Award is presented annually by the Orange County Human Relations Commission to an Orange County youth, an Orange County adult, and an Orange County business that have served the community with distinction in the pursuit of equality, justice, and human rights for all residents.  Click here for information on the most recent and upcoming Pauli Murray Awards event.

29th Annual Pauli Murray Awards

The 29th Annual Pauli Murray Awards will be held on Sunday, February 24, 2019 from 3:00-5:00 pm at 300 W. Tryon St. in Hillsborough. 

Award Nominations

The Orange County Human Relations Commission is now accepting nominations for the 29th Annual Pauli Murray Awards. 

• Nomination instructions and entry form
• Flyer

Student Essay Contest

The Orange County Human Relations Commission is now accepting entries for the 2019 Student Essay Contest. 

• Essay instructions and entry form
• Flyer

This year's prompt: What do you feel was Pauli Murray’s biggest contribution to the lives of women and/or people of color? In addition, please describe in your essay a meaningful personal experience that reflects the acceptance of, or advocacy for, diversity and inclusion.

Prizes will be distributed to the top three entries in the High School category, and the top three entries in the Middle School category. Prize breakdown is as follows:

• First Place: $250
• Second Place: $150
• Third Place: $100