Purpose
The Karen Armstrong Humanitarian Award honors individuals and organizations whose lives and work embody the transformative power of compassion. Recipients demonstrate a sustained commitment to affirming our shared humanity, and inspiring others to build a more just, peaceful, and compassionate world.
The award celebrates those whose work reflects the spirit of Karen Armstrong's lifelong message:
Compassion is not an ideal reserved for extraordinary moments. It is a courageous daily practice that recognizes the dignity of every human being and seeks to alleviate suffering wherever it is found.
Questions for Selection Committee
Rather than relying solely on accomplishments, the committee should ask:
- Has this person's (organization’s) work expanded compassion in the world?
- Has this individual (organization) helped people recognize the humanity of those they once viewed as "other"?
- Has the nominee demonstrated compassion even toward those with whom they disagree?
- Does this person's life encourage dialogue rather than division?
- Will their legacy continue to inspire future generations?
- Does this nominee embody the spirit of the Charter for Compassion?
Core Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate excellence in most of the following areas.
- Commitment to Compassion: The nominee consistently places compassion at the center of their work and decision making. Evidence includes: service to humanity, alleviation of suffering, ethical leadership, kindness expressed through action, and unwavering moral courage.
- Recognition of Our Shared Humanity: Karen Armstrong continually reminds us that every major wisdom tradition teaches the Golden Rule. Recipients should demonstrate an ability to transcend divisions, recognize the dignity of all people, humanize those considered "the other” and build relationships across differences.
- Courage in the Face of Division: Karen has never chosen the easy path. Recipients should demonstrate moral courage by speaking truth with compassion, remaining engaged during conflict, working for justice without dehumanizing opponents, holding firm to ethical principles despite criticism or personal risk.
- Lasting Impact: Recipients have created work whose influence extends beyond individual (organizational) achievements.
