2019 War Eagle Human Rights Award recipients honored
An honor Tuesday morning, for two Siouxland recipients.
One organization and one individual were honored with the 2019 War Eagle Human Rights Award.
The award recognizes them for their extraordinary work that has positively improved countless lives in Sioux City and the Siouxland area.
“I think it’s important to call out individuals and organizations that really are doing that work,” said Karen Mackey, the Executive Director of Human Rights Commission. “Yes, we should all live the golden rule, but we don’t do that every day. So I think it’s important to hold up individuals and organizations that do that work.”
Andrew Pearson is a juvenile court officer and has devoted his career to improving the Siouxland community.
Among many things, he has helped to create the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. program at East Middle School.
“When you see kids, especially those who may be others have counted out, and you see them turn the corner and then those children themselves grow up to be adults and then they turn around and make a difference in somebody else’s life, that’s what it’s all about,” said Pearson.
The other recipient was the Mary J. Treglia Community House.
Since 1921 the organization has supported the community through multiple services such as immigration and legal services, family services, and advocacy programs.
“The information that’s being provided on a daily basis, and the help that’s being provided, is astronomical,” said Becky Carlson, the Executive Director of Mary J. Treglia Community House. “It’s surprising to even me.”
The awards were presented by Karen Mackey, the Executive Director of Human Rights Commission.