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Presentation of the 2024 Reverend James C. Wright Human Rights Award by the City of Madison Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) and the Department of Civil Rights - Equal Opportunities Division (EOD) to Reverend Dr. Marcus Allen, Sr.
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The Reverend James C. Wright Human Rights Award honors the late Reverend James C. Wright, who served as Executive Director of the Equal Opportunities Commission from its inception in 1968 until his retirement in 1992. The award is given to an individual who best exemplifies Reverend Wright’s dedication and compassion for civil and human rights and conducts their daily life consistent with these values. The Equal Opportunities Commission has selected Reverend Dr. Marcus Allen, Sr. as the recipient of the 2024 award.
Reverend Allen's tireless efforts in various initiatives have had a profound impact on the lives of many individuals, especially the youth. One of Reverend Allen's notable achievements is the creation of the T.R.Y. Academy (Teaching and Reaching our Youth) summer program, tailored for youth ages 12-17 who have been involved in the Juvenile Justice System. This program, born out of necessity, provides essential classes on leadership, finance, apprenticeship certification, meditation, self-regulation, and more. What sets this program apart is not only its educational aspect but also the community engagement opportunities it offers, such as visits to local businesses, libraries, and participation in volunteer activities.
Furthermore, Reverend Allen's leadership extends beyond youth programs. He has played a pivotal role in organizing marches for justice, fostering open dialogues within the faith community, and establishing partnerships with organizations like Dane County to mentor teens aging out of foster care. Additionally, under his guidance, Mt. Zion Baptist Church now hosts a successful Behavioral Health Clinic, providing crucial mental health services to the community.
Reverend Allen's community involvement is vast and impactful, ranging from collaborations with various initiatives like the Collaboration Project to participating in town halls addressing community policing. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his leadership roles in organizations like the African American Council of Churches and the Black Leadership Council.
In conclusion, Reverend Allen's unwavering dedication, leadership, and impactful contributions to the community make him a deserving candidate for the Reverend James C. Wright Award. With this award and for keeping in the tradition of what Reverend Wright stood for in our community, the Equal Opportunities Commission and the Department of Civil Rights - Equal Opportunities Division would like honor Reverend Dr. Marcus Allen, Sr. and say thank you for service to our community.
Past recipients include: Jacqueline Wright, 1996; Dr. Richard H. Harris, 1997; Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson, 1998; Helen Vukelich, 1999; Anthony “Nino” Amato, 2000; John Noreika Sr., 2001; Dr. John Y. Odom, 2002; Peter Muñoz, 2003; Earnestine Moss, 2004; Jonathan “Jon” Gramling, 2005; Agnes Gutierrez Cammer, 2006; Jeffery Erlanger, 2007; Dr. Richard Davis, 2008; Darlene Hancock, 2009; Alfonso Studesville, 2010; Richard V. Brown Sr., 2011; Colleen Butler, 2012; Charlestine “Charlie” Daniel, 2013; Dr. Floyd Rose, 2014; Anthony Timmons, 2015; Annette Miller 2016; Brandi Grayson, 2019; Tamora (Tami) Fleming, 2020; Carmella Harris, 2021; Wayne Strong, 2022; and Emmanuel Scarbrough, 2023.