The Appleseed Foundation is proud to announce the 2026 Pillars of Justice Honorees, an exceptional group of leaders whose work embodies Appleseed’s mission to advance justice, equity, and opportunity in communities across the country and around the world.
The 2026 Pillars of Justice Awards Celebration will take place on September 24, 2026, at the National Union Building in Washington, D.C. The annual event honors individuals whose careers reflect a sustained commitment to public service, systemic reform, and the protection of human dignity.
The 2026 Pillars of Justice Honorees are:
Kelly Tubman Hardy, an international pro bono leader and corporate partner at Hogan Lovells, recognized for her global legal and civic leadership advancing protections for families and vulnerable populations. Through her work with Appleseed Mexico and the broader Appleseed Network, she has helped strengthen cross-border advocacy efforts focused on unaccompanied children and other at-risk communities.
Letty Cottin Pogrebin, legendary author, activist, and founding editor of Ms. Magazine, honored for more than five decades of feminist leadership, advocacy for writers’ rights, and dedication to peace and dialogue. Her work has shaped national conversations on equality, democracy, and human rights.
Reginald Dwayne Betts, poet, lawyer, and Founder and CEO of Freedom Reads, recognized for his transformative work at the intersection of justice, literature, and incarceration reform. Through Freedom Reads, Betts has helped install hundreds of libraries in prisons nationwide, expanding access to knowledge, dignity, and opportunity.
Seth P. Waxman, former U.S. Solicitor General and one of the nation’s most respected Supreme Court and appellate advocates, honored for a career defined by public service, civil rights advocacy, and an enduring commitment to the rule of law. His legal leadership continues to shape American jurisprudence.
“We are deeply inspired by each honoree’s extraordinary courage, vision, and unwavering commitment to justice and human dignity. Through their work across law, civic engagement, equity, literacy, education, and the arts, they have helped expand what is possible in our democracy and inspired others to pursue opportunity for all,” said Wenchi Hu, Pillars of Justice Award Committee Chair.
“Each honoree represents a lifetime of extraordinary commitment and achievements to advancing justice, democracy, and human dignity. Through their leadership and distinct paths to justice, they have affirmed the essential values of fairness and accountability in public life,” said Richard Jerome, Pillars of Justice Awards Committee Member.
“The honorees’ work reflects the courage and perseverance required to confront injustice and build a more humane and democratic society. We are truly honored to celebrate their profound impact and enduring achievements. Their lives and work inspire renewed confidence that progress is possible when conviction is matched by action,” said Annamaria Steward, Pillars of Justice Awards Committee Member. “We look forward to honoring them and celebrating their achievements together in September 2026.”
