Douglas’ Coley-Pearson recognized with ADL Kay Family award

The free virtual event, taking place at 8:00 PM ET on Sunday, December 12, will be hosted by Karamo Brown and feature performances from an all-star lineup of musicians and performers including Josh Groban, Gloria Estefan, Joshua Bell, The American Pops Orchestra and members of the National Symphony Orchestra as well as appearances by Judith Light, Jason Alexander and Norm Lewis. 

“While at times the fight against hate can seem overwhelming, it’s inspiring to learn about incredible individuals who have taken on these challenges in their communities,” said ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt. “These courageous individuals have demonstrated that even in difficult times, there is immense opportunity for progress, dialogue and greater understanding. We are honored to share their stories and encourage others to fight hate for good.”

Actors, musicians, civil rights leaders, policymakers, and friends of ADL will join the free event to celebrate this year’s honorees, each of whom has stood up to hate, injustice, and bias so that others will not have to experience the same.

Olivia Coley-Pearson is the only Georgia resident to receive this recognition and will be presented with the ADL Kay Family Award.

Olivia Coley-Pearson of Douglas, a small town in Coffee County, GA, has for decades led the fight there for voter rights. She was criminally charged with voter fraud in 2012 for legally helping one Black voter cast a ballot, brought to trial for that in 2016, and charged again in the 2020 elections. Pearson has seen meaningful growth in voter registration and turnout, and her goal is to inspire the Douglas’ Black residents and to provide voters with ways to right racial wrongs.

For a list of the rest of the award winners, please visit ConcertAgainstHate.org/#Honorees