My cousin, who runs the Petra Foundation, sent me this announcement of the Mario Savio Young Activist Award,which carries a cash prize of $6,000 to be divided equally between the prize-winner and his or her organization. Here are the details:

This award is presented to a young person (or persons) with a deep commitment to
human rights and social justice and a proven ability to transform this commitment into
effective action. The nominees should have demonstrated leadership ability, creativity
and integrity.
Specific eligibility requirements are:

* Under age 30 by 9/1/08 (preference will be given to applicants under age 26);

* Engaged in activism for social change, promoting the values of peace, human rights,
economic or social justice, or freedom of expression;

* Acting within the context of an organization, social movement, or larger community
effort;

* Considered an inspirational leader or motivating force by others in that context;

* Based in the United States , although work may be international in scope;

* Able to attend award ceremony in Berkeley , CA (Dec. 4; expenses paid)

* Preference will be given to candidates who have not been widely recognized and do
not have personal privilege or a strong institutional base of support.

This award honors the late Mario Savio (1942-1996), who came to national
prominence as a spokesperson for the Berkeley Free Speech Movement in 1964.
His moral clarity, his eloquence, and his democratic style of leadership impelled
thousands of his fellow Berkeley students to struggle for, and win, more political
freedom, inspiring a generation of student activism. Savio remained a lifelong
fighter for human rights and social justice.

NOMINATIONS ARE DUE BY JULY 31st, 2008. Nomination forms and additional
information are available at www.savio.org or e-mail savioatsonic.net.