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Women for Women International congratulates Mary Robinson on winning the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Washington, D.C. — President Barack Obama awarded Mary Robinson and twelve other recipients with the Presidential Medal of Freedom on August 12, 2009. The Medal is the United State's top civilian honor.
Mary Robinson is a lifelong human rights activist, who formerly served as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR). She was also the first female President of Ireland. She has brought attention to human rights injustices at home in Ireland and in her work abroad.
Speaking at the 1995 Beijing UN Conference for Women, she coined the slogan "women's rights are human rights." Throughout her career, Robinson has integrated this principle with the mission of her work. As a champion for all people, she especially lent her voice to socially-excluded women, who go unheard in many parts of the world.
Mary Robinson is now a member of The Elders group of social change visionaries. Today, she leads the Realizing Rights Ethical Globalization Initiative. She affirms the dignity and equality of all people and embraces the unique position of women as she continues to promote gender equality worldwide. She is truly deserving of the honor of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Women for Women International celebrates Mary Robinson and congratulates her on her lifetime of service, dedication and commitement to human rights.
