Union Square Awards

The Union Square Awards was established by an anonymous donor in 1998 to honor grassroots activists making notable contributions to New York City. His vision was to support emerging community organizations as a way to engage New Yorkers, build neighborhoods and strengthen the city. The Awards were named for the park on 14th Street, a historic gathering place where New Yorkers have organized and spoken out about major social issues since the nineteenth century Known as a forum for the poor and disenfranchised, Union Square is identified with strong commitments and highlights the essential qualities embodied in the Award.

The Union Square Award identifies visionaries and risk takers who, motivated by a deep passion for human rights, address society’s most pressing social, political and economic concerns. Through organizing, advocacy, public education and direct services, their actions bring diverse communities into public discourse and serve as an inspiration to others. The Award recognizes social justice organizations working on issues of homelessness and hunger; HIV/AIDS prevention, education and treatment; youth leadership and organizing; family and community development; economic self-sufficiency and conflict resolution.

In 2006, the Union Square Arts Award was created to honor the important leadership role played by arts and culture in providing educational opportunities for young people, building collaboration and promoting social change. It identifies innovative organizations in all artistic disciplines - dance, theater, music, visual arts, media arts, creative writing and radio - that benefit youth and families in low-income communities across New York City.

Union Square Awards and Arts Awards are made annually. Candidates are identified through a nomination process. Anyone familiar with an organization’s work may submit a nomination detailing the reasons why the organization should be considered. Nominations are reviewed as they are received throughout the year.

The Union Square Awards is a project of the Tides Center, a member of the Tides family of organizations. Its mission is to actively promote change toward a healthy society -one founded on principles of social justice, equal economic opportunity, a robust democratic process and environmental sustainability.