ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — Jessie Lawrence is being recognized for her contribution to advancing and furthering human rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Pasadena teen is the 2019 recipient of the Human Right Awards for her work as a 2SLGBTQ+ advocate and youth activist.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission presented Lawrence the award during a ceremony at Government House in St. John’s Dec 5.
The award is presented annually in celebration of International Human Rights Day.
Lawrence, a 17-year-old Corner Brook Regional High School student from Pasadena, came out as gay when she was 13.
When she was 14, she became co-founder and director of Camp Ohana, a 2SLGBTQ+-focused summer camp, by youth and for youth.
At the camp, there are no wait times for counselors and no hatred — simply education and inclusion.
Lawrence strives to further acceptance in schools and promote the need for effective action against the discrimination of diverse individuals.
She is also a part of the francophone community, holding the position of vice-president of Franco Jeunes de Terre-Neuve et Labrador and leading the way for accessible resources among the francophone community and people of French expression.
