Distinguished Figures Honored at Public Counsel Awards Gala

Celebrating Dedication: Honoring Champions of Justice and Artistic Excellence

Acknowledging Public Service: Vice President Kamala Harris's Impact

Vice President Kamala Harris will be honored with the esteemed William O. Douglas Award. This accolade recognizes her extensive and distinguished career in public service, which includes her roles as District Attorney of San Francisco, California's Attorney General, a U.S. Senator, and ultimately, the 49th Vice President of the United States. Her tenure has been marked by significant efforts to advance civil rights, foster economic opportunity, champion reproductive rights, and promote crucial climate investments, embodying a lifelong commitment to justice and equality for all citizens.

An Icon's Enduring Legacy: Rita Moreno's Artistic Journey

The legendary Rita Moreno is set to receive the Trailblazer in the Arts Award, celebrating her extraordinary career spanning over eight decades in film, television, and theater. As one of the rare EGOT winners, her contributions to the arts are unparalleled. Beyond her numerous awards, including an Academy Award, two Emmys, a Grammy, a Tony, and a Golden Globe, Moreno has also been recognized with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the National Medal of Arts, and the Kennedy Center Honors, solidifying her status as a true artistic pioneer.

Recognizing Pro Bono Commitment: Davis Wright Tremaine LLP

In addition to these individual honors, the law firm Davis Wright Tremaine LLP will be presented with the Law Firm Pro Bono Award. This award acknowledges their unwavering dedication to public service over more than eight decades. In the year 2025 alone, the firm generously contributed over 31,275 hours of pro bono work, an effort valued at an impressive $25.6 million, demonstrating a profound commitment to legal aid and community support.

An Evening of Esteem: Event Details and Special Appearances

The annual William O. Douglas Award Dinner will take place on April 29th in Beverly Hills, bringing together leaders and advocates. Jason George will return as the event's emcee, joined by board member Tanya Acker. The evening will feature a special reading by renowned poet Amanda Gorman, and the William O. Douglas Award will be presented to Vice President Harris by the acclaimed actress Uzo Aduba, promising a memorable celebration of impactful work.

A Tradition of Excellence: Honoring Past Visionaries

The Public Counsel's awards dinner has a rich history of celebrating influential figures who have made significant societal contributions. Previous honorees include a diverse group of prominent personalities such as Jane Fonda, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, Viola Davis, John Legend, Governor Gavin Newsom, Hillary Clinton, President Bill Clinton, Elie Wiesel, and Reverend James M. Lawson Jr., reflecting the event's enduring commitment to recognizing leadership across various fields.