Venezuela’s Alfredo Romero Named 2017 RFK Human Rights Award Laureate
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MEDIA CONTACT
Max Burns
burns@rfkhumanrights.org
646-809-0120
(August 7, 2017 | Washington, D.C.) Venezuelan human rights activist and attorney Alfredo Romero has been named the 2017 laureate of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award, one of the highest honors in activism.
Romero has been fearless in his resistance to the increasing repression of the Venezuelan government. He has dedicated his life to protect all Venezuelans from arbitrary detention and other human rights violations through his work as Executive Director of Foro Penal Venezolano (FPV), a non-governmental organization that brings together over 200 pro-bono lawyers and 1,700 volunteers.
"I am very grateful for this Award, which I accept in honor of the struggle to achieve freedom for all Venezuelans,” Romero said. “The Award is a tribute to my family at Foro Penal Venezolano, which is united in its enduring commitment, conviction and heart, and above all, I accept it on behalf of the victims of repression by the Venezuelan government".”
For 34 years, Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights has honored activists and human rights defenders from around the world with the prestigious Human Rights Award. Previous honorees include American criminal justice advocates Andrea James and Glenn E. Martin (2016), Ugandan LGBTI human rights defender Frank Mugisha (2011) and Dominican Sonia Pierre (2006).
“Even as we celebrate Alfredo’s honor, Venezuelans are suffering under a repressive regime that is increasingly eroding all democratic principles,” Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights President Kerry Kennedy said. “Alfredo’s work is a testament to the optimism and hope that will ultimately triumph over violence and repression.”
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About Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights
Led by human rights activist and lawyer Kerry Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights has advocated for a more just and peaceful world since 1968. We work alongside local activists to ensure lasting positive change in governments and corporations. Our team includes leading attorneys, advocates, and leaders in business and government united by a commitment to social justice.
About the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award
First awarded in 1984, the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award reflects the conviction of Robert F. Kennedy that one person can make a difference in the world. Recipients of this prestigious award have advanced human rights and freedom around the world, bringing international attention to major human rights issues in their home countries