The International Women of Courage Award
The International Women of Courage Award was established by the U.S. Department of State in 2007 to honor women who are making a substantial difference in the lives of women around the globe. Nominated by U.S. embassies and NGOs, the candidates are selected by the State Department for their courageous and selfless efforts advocating for human rights, women’s equality, and social progress, often in the face of great personal risk. Honorees travel to the U.S. for an award ceremony at the State Department and an opportunity for cultural exchange across the country.
The International Women of Courage Award
The International Women of Courage Award was established by the U.S. Department of State in 2007 to honor women who are making a substantial difference in the lives of women around the globe. Nominated by U.S. embassies and NGOs, the candidates are selected by the State Department for their courageous and selfless efforts advocating for human rights, women’s equality, and social progress, often in the face of great personal risk. Honorees travel to the U.S. for an award ceremony at the State Department and an opportunity for cultural exchange across the country.
AWIU’s International Women of Courage Celebration
Since 2008, American Women for International Understanding has had the privilege of working in partnership with the State Department on the International Women of Courage Celebration, an evening event that recognizes the awardees and celebrates their exemplary efforts. In addition, AWIU provides each of the awardees with a monetary grant to support continued efforts in her home country. International Women’s Day provides the backdrop for this prestigious dinner event held in Los Angeles in the Spring. Over the last 15 years, AWIU has supported the work of over 150 International Women of Courage.
AWIU’s International Women of Courage Celebration
Since 2008, American Women for International Understanding has had the unique privilege to work with the State Department in hosting the International Women of Courage Celebration, an evening event that recognizes the awardees and celebrates their exemplary efforts. In addition, AWIU provides each of the awardees with a monetary grant to support continued efforts in her home country. The observance of International Women’s Day provides the backdrop for this prestigious dinner event.
International Women of Courage Honorees
The International Women of Courage come from all walks of life and share the same unshakeable commitment to the rights and well-being of women around the globe. Their exceptional leadership and courage are helping to transform their societies despite tremendous challenges.
International Women of Courage Honorees
The International Women of Courage come from all walks of life and share the same unshakeable commitment to the rights and well-being of women around the globe. Their exceptional leadership and courage are helping to transform their societies despite tremendous challenges.
The State Department Award Ceremony
The U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award Ceremony and Reception is held at the Department of State, and usually attends by the First Lady and the Secretary of State. Since the inception of this award in 2007, the State Department has recognized more than 170 women from more than 80 different countries. U.S. diplomatic missions overseas nominate one woman of courage from their respective host countries. The finalists are selected and approved by senior Department officials.
The State Department Award Ceremony
The U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award Ceremony and Reception is held at the Department of State, although it was virtual in 2021 and 2022. Since the inception of this award in 2007, the State Department has recognized more than 170 women from more than 80 different countries. U.S. diplomatic missions overseas nominate one woman of courage from their respective host countries. The finalists are selected and approved by senior Department officials.
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