New City, NY – Rockland County has posthumously honored Linda Berns with the Lottie Swan-Crawford Human Rights Award, recognizing her lifelong commitment to justice, civil rights, and community advocacy. The award, presented by Rockland County Executive Ed Day and Human Rights Commissioner Spencer Chiimbwe, celebrates individuals who embody the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion while making significant contributions to human rights in Rockland County.
Berns dedicated decades of her life to fighting for equality, serving as a leader of the Rockland County League of Women Voters for more than 50 years and as Executive Director of the NYCLU Hudson Valley Chapter for 16 years. She also chaired both the Rockland County Human Rights Commission and the Fair Housing Board, where she championed fair housing policies and civil rights initiatives.
Beyond her leadership roles, Berns was deeply involved in volunteer work, advocating for causes including domestic violence prevention, Holocaust education, and child abuse prevention. Her dedication to fairness and inclusivity made a lasting impact on the community, aligning with the legacy of Lottie Swan-Crawford, a pioneering advocate for human rights in Rockland County.
“Linda Berns was a relentless advocate for human rights, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations,” said Day. “Her posthumous recognition is a testament to the lasting impact she made on our community.”
“Linda’s unwavering dedication to fairness and equity has left an indelible mark on Rockland County,” said Chiimbwe. “It is only fitting that we honor her memory with this award.”
The Lottie Swan-Crawford Human Rights Award serves as a reminder of the enduring fight for justice and equality, ensuring that Berns’ contributions to Rockland County will not be forgotten.