The Paul and Paula Murphy Human Rights Award Guidelines

Paul & Paula Murphy
On September 16, 2012, the Board of Directors of the Center established an award to be funded from a bequest to the Center from the estates of Paul and Paula Murphy. The original purpose of this award was to honor a pastor or layperson who has significantly advanced the discussion of human sexuality and/or the human rights of LGBTQ+ persons within a religious organization or institution. On June 22, 2025, the Board of Directors of the Center revised the name and criteria of the award, now known as the Paul and Paula Murphy Human Rights Award.
The purpose of the award is to honor a person or organization who has significantly demonstrated a commitment to advancing the human rights of LGBTQ+ persons, and/or advocating for persons living with HIV or AIDS, and/or promoting racial justice, equality, and equity, and/or creating a more inclusive society and religious communities. Nominations each year will be solicited from the entire Board, with the Executive Committee making a recommendation to be approved by the Board.



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