Emma & Tom Byrne Peace Award
Goal:
The Emma & Tom Byrne Peace Award is established to recognize Howard County students working to promote peace and peaceful resolution of conflict. The Byrnes, originally from Scotland, members of Sandy Spring Friends and Patapsco Friends Meetings, were enthusiastically involved in Peace and Conflict Resolution programs in Howard County. Of particular note is Emma Byrne’s “Peace Rap” which she performed for the youth of Howard County in schools and community events.
Many have been attracted to Quakers because of the Peace Testimony. The enthusiasm with which Friends follow their leadings to “speak truth to power” in the pursuit of peace has garnered the admiration of many. Instead of joining in actions that may lead to destruction and death, Friends urge all to cooperate to save life and strengthen the bonds of unity among all people. All are urged to create the conditions of peace, such as freedom, justice, cooperation, and the right sharing of the world’s resources, seeking not only peace with one another, but also peace with the earth.
Eligibility:
A student nominated for this award must be a Howard County resident in high school (public, parochial or independent institution) or a home schooled student. Students must have demonstrated their commitment to the promotion of peace and peaceful resolution of conflict in their school, community or in an area of conflict.
Nomination Process:
The nomination forms will be available on our website http://www.patapscofriends.com from September 2015 through November 2015. Nominations should be sent to Patapsco Friends Meeting by the November 30, 2015 in order to afford the student the opportunity use this award on resumes and college applications. Nominations can be submitted by the student, by a mentor or teacher, or anyone who knows of the merits of the student’s activities.
To be considered for this award the student will provide:
- General information such as names and addresses;
- Description of the work done for peace and/or conflict resolution by the student, and a self-assessment of the effectiveness of the project;
- Testimony of a mentor or teacher.
Download the Nomination Form.
Award:
Patapsco Friends Meeting will award one prize of $200 to one student in November of each year. The Peace and Social Concerns Committee will select the student based on the work and/or projects the student was engaged in over the past year. In addition to the county-wide winner, three other finalists will receive a $50 prize. All applicants will receive a certificate of participation.
All applicants are invited to visit Patapsco Friends Meeting to participate in a gathering of young peace activists. The winning projects will be described, and participants will get to know how others are actively addressing peace and social concerns. Students involved in this award will have the opportunity to learn about the Quaker Peace Testimony and the Quaker Way.