Kerry Kennedy, President of the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice & Human Rights, will receive the New York State United Teachers’ Albert Shanker Award for Distinguished Service — the union’s most prestigious award, recognizing special contributions made to public education in the United States.
Kerry Kennedy will be honored for her work in establishing the Speak Truth To Power human rights curriculum, which, in conjunction with NYSUT, was introduced in New York State schools last November. [Click here for more information on the NYSUT-RFK Center Speak Truth To Power curriculum.]
Through lesson plans developed by classroom teachers, the curriculum introduces students to human rights defenders from around the globe. Based on Kerry Kennedy's book of the same name, the Speak Truth To Power curriculum ultimately aims to encourage students to abandon the role of "bystander" and, instead, work to effect positive change in the world in which they live.
“Kerry Kennedy’s contributions to public education are immeasurable,” said NYSUT President Richard C. Iannuzzi. “Her work and commitment toward inspiring our students to speak up and speak out about human rights by fighting inequality and championing social justice will ensure the powerless are given a voice and an opportunity to improve their lives.
“In order to ensure a just society, there is no greater lesson our students could learn,” Iannuzzi said, “and there is no one more deserving of this prestigious honor than Kerry Kennedy.”
“NYSUT’s leadership, members, actions, and most importantly, courage, demonstrate a deep and abiding commitment to the protection of human rights and the empowerment of young people to create change," said Kerry Kennedy. “In spirit and in practice, NYSUT embodies ‘Speak Truth to Power.’"
In partnership with NYSUT, Kerry Kennedy also developed the Speak Up, Speak Out curriculum, providing students lessons and resources designed to instill the concept of social justice and the principles of a just society, which are the cornerstones of Robert F. Kennedy’s legacy.
Kerry Kennedy will be presented the Albert Shanker Award on Thursday, April 7, during NYSUT’s annual Representative Assembly. She will deliver an address to the union following the award presentation.
