OC Human Relations CEO, Rusty Kennedy, was honored with a “Beacon of Light” Award from Costa Mesa’s Fairview Community Church on September 17, 2016. Rusty was honored along with Gustavo Arellano of the OC Weekly, and Christina Fiahlo of the activist group CIVIC (Community Initiatives for Visiting Immigrants in Confinement).
Rev. Dr. Sarah Halverson-Cano, the pastor of Fairview Community Church, said about Rusty, “If anyone has ever done any sort of justice work in Orange County they have heard of the legendary Rusty Kennedy, the Executive Director of the Orange County Human Relations Commission. He leads an incredible team to address issues of injustice in our county ranging from hate crimes and discrimination, to human trafficking –working with youth and adults to address issues of prejudice in our county, even with law enforcement and mediation! They do it all and encourage and empower others to join forces with them to make Orange County a more just place to live and work. Rusty has led the organization since 1981 with humility and grace, wisdom and prophetic challenge. I’m so excited to honor him on Saturday evening!
Congratulations, Rusty and the other awardees!
