As we near the end of this exceptionally difficult year, one that has seen the courageous pursuit of equality and justice become political and even adversarial, the Ripple of Hope Award laureates urged the audience to continue speaking their truth to power and demanding social change. 

“We live in a culturally charged world, where even listening to an opposing point of view can be seen as treasonous,” said Dan Schulman, president and chief executive officer of PayPal, in his remarks. “But this is the time we live in and I feel deeply that I have an obligation to create a more just world. Our democracy relies on each of us rising above our own self-interest to create a better system for everyone.”

“My father said ‘although we may live in challenging times, so are they filled with opportunity.’ Our laureates’ actions send encouraging messages of hope and possibility,” said Kerry Kennedy, president of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights. “Their commitment to equality, capacity for innovative solutions, respect for human rights, and vision for a better future inspire us all.”

Typically an in-person event, this year’s virtual celebration provided unprecedented access to the Ripple of Hope laureates—several of whom have faced undue criticism, harassment, and even death threats in their high-profile work defending human rights—and gathered influential leaders across government, business, advocacy, and entertainment. Among those in attendance: Katie Couric, Chris Tucker, Martin Sheen, Alfre Woodard, Dan Rather, Keegan-Michael Key, Gloria Steinem, Cornel West, Jake Tapper, Joy Behar, Rep. Cedric Richmond, George Lopez, Don Lemon, Carlos Santana, Sam Waterston, Aloe Blacc, and Martin Luther King III. 

For more on the 2020 Ripple of Hope Award ceremony and this year’s laureates—including exclusive photos, videos, and transcripts of the laureates’ remarks—visit RFKGala.com. 

Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights
We are a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization that has worked to realize Robert F. Kennedy’s dream of a more just and peaceful world since 1968. In partnership with local activists, we advocate for key human rights issues—championing changemakers and pursuing strategic litigation at home and around the world. And to ensure change that lasts, we foster a social-good approach to business and investment and educate millions of students about human rights and social justice.