Cross-Partisan Honors: Dr. Rashad Richey, CEO Michael Thurmond, Cong. Tom Price, Sen Don Balfour and Others

PRESS RELEASE:

ATLANTA – On Thurs., Aug. 15, the Georgia Democracy Resilience Network hosted the Georgia Civic Excellence Awards Dinner to bestow awards upon eight leaders from Georgia politics and civic organizations. The awards were presented to individuals from both sides of the aisle for integrity shown in working to foster understanding for community members and trust in the electoral system.

“We are proud to honor the work of these and so many Georgians who are committed to constructive public engagement and pursuing their differences respectfully,” said former State Senator Don Balfour, Senior Advisor to the Democracy Resilience Network.

Two leaders received the Georgia Democracy Resilience Network 2024 Champion Award , former U.S. Representative Dr. Tom Price and DeKalb County, Georgia, CEO Michael Thurmond . The individuals exhibited exemplary leadership in their service to the state of Georgia and their continued efforts to champion systems and communities.

“The best leaders understand that they must work with all kinds of people – especially those with opposing viewpoints – to identify solutions for common problems. President Carter has demonstrated that skill throughout his life and Georgia is fortunate to have so many talented leaders still carrying on that tradition of civility and compromise.” said Paige Alexander, CEO of The Carter Center.

Six leaders received the Georgia Democracy Resilience Network 2024 Defender Award for their work in advocating for Georgia’s electoral system and encouraging faith in democracy.

Helen Butler , Executive Director, Georgia Coalition for the Peoples' Agenda
Ann Cramer , Georgia civic leader and former Director for Corporate Citizenship for the Americas at IBM
Emory Morseberger , former member of the Georgia State House
Rev. Randy Rainwater , senior pastor of Grace New Hope Church
Jeff Totty , Field Director, Democratic Party of Georgia
Tommie Williams , former President, Pro Tempore, Georgia State Senate

“These leaders may not appear to be natural political bedfellows. Yet they share a lifetime of public service and are dedicated to pursuing their goals within the norms and values of our political system.” said Dr. Rashad Richey, Senior Advisor to the Democracy Resilience Network.

The Georgia Democracy Resilience Network is a cross-partisan initiative working for a more peaceful Georgia where everyone can participate and have their voices heard. The organization will continue to host events that encourage civic engagement and disagreement, including the second in its series, “Disagreeing Better Over Waffles and Wine,” in September.

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About the Georgia Democracy Resilience Network: The Georgia Democracy Resilience Network is a cross-partisan initiative, initiated by The Carter Center. Led by former State Senator Don Balfour and Emmy-nominated political analyst for CBS News Atlanta Dr. Rashad Richey, the network is made up of civic, business, and religious leaders and citizens from both sides of the political aisle. Members will serve as community advocates for peaceful political engagement and trusted elections, and work to foster confidence in electoral processes and address disinformation.

CONTACT:
Patricia Pope, patricia.pope@gmmb.com, 571-327-4870