By Ted Schwartz

I have now lived in Colorado Springs for nearly 30 years, so...it is home. Although I've made every effort to be a good friend and neighbor, in some ways, I have been what, locally, is a minority during the last three decades. I am an Easterner, having grown up in Philadelphia. I am a progressive. I believe the question is always how do we go forward, not do we choose to go forward or backwards. While not involved in formal religion, I come from a Jewish family heritage. All of these criteria put me in the local minority rather than majority.

I must say that I feel more estranged from the local community than ever in the past year or so. Citizens Project has successfully promoted diversity in our community for many years and has helped win some big battles. I believe we are traveling down a more inclusive path now as a result. Unfortunately, I feel some are busy closing ranks and making new groups of "others" rather than moving forward together.

The Divine Award is given annually to a person whose commitment to diversity, equality and religious freedom has impacted the community in positive and lasting ways. The award simultaneously recognizes the accomplishments of its recipient and honors the legacy of Amy Divine, the founder of Citizens Project, who dedicated her energy to championing traditional American values of equal rights, individual freedoms, separation of church and state, civic engagement and respect for diversity. 

This year, our annual Divine Award will be held Tuesday, February 11th from 5:00-7:00 pm at Stargazers Theater

This year, we will be honoring both June Waller and Judy Noyes!

RSVP to Anya