PILLAR AWARDS

We are a coalition of individual whistleblowers, grassroots activists, public interest advocates and policy makers. We provide a sense of community and mutual support for whistleblowers or civil and human rights activists.

The Pillar is awarded to notable civil and human rights champions; previous recipients include Representative Elijah Cummings (D-MD), Senator Charles “Chuck” Grassley (R-IA) and Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO). The Pillar is awarded to politicians, community activists and journalists—including documentary filmmakers.

Patsey Widakuswara

Journalism Award

Patsy Widakuswara served as Voice of America White House Bureau Chief, covering multiple U.S. administrations and interviewing national leaders.

Kathryn "Kate" Neeper

Journalism Award

Kathryn "Kate" Neeper served as USAGM Director of Strategy and Performance Assessment (and Chief Strategy Officer).

Scott Smith

Grace Lee Boggs Award

Known as “The Guy in the Blue Shirt,” Scott Smith is an independent testing expert who has investigated more than 75 oil and chemical disasters worldwide.

Dr. Waymon Hinson

Frank Wills Award

Dr. Waymon Hinson paid a profound price for standing with Black farmers.