Ocean State Today

Common Cause Rhode Island is set to host its annual Champions of Democracy Celebration on Thursday, October 10, at The Guild in Pawtucket. Virginia Kase Solomón, the President and CEO of Common Cause, will open the event with remarks on the state of American democracy.

The celebration is recognized as one of the largest democracy events in Rhode Island and will include a program featuring speakers, leaders, and honorees. Three individuals will be honored for their contributions to civic life in the state.

Dr. Taino J. Palermo, an adjunct faculty member at Roger Williams University School of Law and co-founder of the Center for Indigenous People’s Rights, will receive the Emerging Leader Award. Megan Hamlin-Black, former Rhode Island State Librarian and current director of financial strategy and planning at the Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner, will be awarded the Excellence in Public Service Award. David Pellegrino, former chair of Common Cause Rhode Island’s State Board and senior vice president at Navigant Credit Union, will receive the Distinguished Service Award.

John Marion, Executive Director of Common Cause Rhode Island stated: “The Champions of Democracy Celebration is a way to recognize the influential leaders in Rhode Island who are protecting and strengthening our rights and freedoms through their work.” He added that this year’s honorees "are showing us the important role we all play in improving civic life in our local communities."

Media representatives are invited to attend and record the event. Interviews with Virginia Kase Solomón and John Marion will also be available.