Rani Yan Yan of Bangladesh has been awarded with the US's Global Anti-Racism Champions award.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will give the first annual Secretary’s Global Anti-Racism Champions Awards in Washington on Wednesday, the state department said.
This group of global civil society leaders has courageously advanced the human rights of members of marginalized racial, ethnic and indigenous communities, and combatted systemic racism, discrimination and xenophobia worldwide, the State Department said.
Rani Yan Yan is an indigenous human rights defender and women’s rights activist who has brought international attention to the plight of her community at great risk to herself, it added.
Yan Yan serves as a tribal leader from the Chakma tribe in Bangladesh and actively advocates for vulnerable populations facing government-sponsored discrimination, land grabbing, violence and the adverse effects of climate change.
As a direct result of Yan Yan’s activism, the international community has gained a new awareness of the violence committed against minority groups in Bangladesh.
“Throughout her career, Yan Yan has advised and trained domestic and international organizations on climate resiliency and gender equality, researched the political participation of indigenous women, and mentored youth activists on diversity and social inclusion.”
Yan Yan has emerged as a fearless voice and outspoken advocate for equal rights, despite facing immense discrimination and even violence, the State Department said in its announcement.