Montgomery County’s Office of Human Rights (OHR) will honor six individuals for their contributions to advancing human and civil rights. The 13th biennial Human Rights Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15, at the BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown.
This year’s inductees include Douglas M. Duncan, Catherine S. Leggett, Sherlene Lucas, Constance A. Morella, Rev. Dr. Gareth E. Murray, and Carl A. Prather, Sr.
“Montgomery County has long been a place where people come together to build a more just, equitable and inclusive community,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “The honorees we celebrate this year have made exemplary contributions to advancing human and civil rights in our County. Their work has uplifted the importance of fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all. These individuals remind us that the fight for equality continues and that each of us has a role in making our community stronger and more compassionate.”
Douglas M. Duncan
Douglas M. Duncan served three consecutive terms as Montgomery County Executive starting in 1994. He led transformative initiatives that improved residents’ lives, particularly those facing economic hardship. Under his leadership, Montgomery County became the first in the nation to implement a local Earned Income Tax Credit, offering targeted tax relief to working families. His administration expanded healthcare access, provided a discount prescription drug card, increased transit subsidies, and doubled affordable housing spending. He also signed a living wage bill into law, demonstrating his commitment to economic justice and social equity.
Catherine S. Leggett
Catherine S. Leggett, a distinguished human resources attorney and wife of former County Executive Ike Leggett, has made lasting contributions to human rights through community leadership. She served as campaign chair for the Josiah Henson Museum, raising awareness of his historic role in Montgomery County and American history. Leggett also co-chaired the Scotland Community’s 2nd Century Project, addressing historical injustices and uplifting the church and community. Her efforts further her legacy of equality and historic preservation.
Sherlene Lucas
Sherlene Lucas is a dedicated leader and State chair of the NAACP. She actively participates in committees, including Women in the NAACP, ACT-SO, and the Youth Committee. Her work with the Montgomery County NAACP, Gap Busters, Black Women of Distinction, and the Lincoln Park Historical Foundation highlights her commitment to advancing civil rights, empowering communities, and supporting marginalized voices.
Constance A. Morella
Constance A. Morella has dedicated over six decades to public service. She taught in Montgomery County Public Schools and Montgomery College, served eight terms in Congress, and was a founding member and president of the Montgomery County Commission for Women. She also served as U.S. Ambassador to the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development in Paris. Morella championed civil rights, supported domestic violence victims, advocated for same-sex marriage, and helped establish the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. In 2018, Montgomery County named the Bethesda Library after her.
Rev. Dr. Gareth E. Murray
Rev. Dr. Gareth E. Murray has advanced human and civil rights through transformative leadership and community commitment. As one of the first African Americans elected to the Maryland General Assembly representing Montgomery County, he supported minority-owned businesses, promoted cultural competence, and addressed health disparities. He founded the People’s Wellness Clinic and advocated for justice and unity while breaking barriers in faith and entrepreneurship.
Carl A. Prather, Sr.
Carl A. Prather, Sr., born in historic Prathertown—a community founded by formerly enslaved individuals in 1883—has steadfastly championed human and civil rights. He combats food insecurity, promotes accessible transportation, and supports career development and living wages. As a commissioner on the Montgomery County Commission on People with Disabilities, he advocated for accessibility in local parks. In his community, he leads efforts to provide high-speed internet, free tech support, and a private rideshare service to address transportation gaps.
The Human Rights Hall of Fame was established in 2001 by former OHR Director Odessa Shannon and has since inducted 108 individuals. This year’s inductees join past honorees who have made extraordinary contributions to advancing civil rights and promoting social justice in Montgomery County.
A panel of previous Hall of Fame honorees selected the 2024 inductees after a thorough review process. The public is invited to attend the ceremony to celebrate the achievements of those working to advance civil rights in the County.
The event will take place at BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Common Road, Germantown. Residents can view the full list of Human Rights Hall of Fame inductees here, or learn more about this year’s six inductees here.
