Advocates for positive change honored

By Karissa Condoianis

For the fourth year, the State Fair of Texas and the Juanita J. Craft Civil Rights House & Museum Steering Committee are proud to announce the recipients of the Juanita Craft Humanitarian Awards. Juanita Craft was a tireless activist for civil rights and played a crucial role in integrating many places across the city of Dallas, including the State Fair of Texas. In honor of her efforts, achievements, and legacy, the State Fair and Juanita J. Craft Civil Rights House & Museum Steering Committee are recognizing individuals who are following in her footsteps and continue to be advocates for positive change in our community. These individuals will be recognized at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 17 in a virtual ceremony.

 The Juanita J. Craft Civil Rights House & Museum Steering Committee established and executed the selection process as part of their civil rights education and awareness initiative. Nominations were evaluated based on impact and active involvement in the community, commitment to social justice through notable efforts, and evidence of time and resources used to address issues in the community. In partnership with the Steering Committee, the State Fair of Texas brings the community together to honor and celebrate the Humanitarian Award recipients. 

In addition to the Juanita Craft Humanitarian Awards, the State Fair of Texas recently renamed one of the Big Tex Scholarships to honor Craft and her legacy. 

Formerly known as the Pete Schenkel Scholarship, the opportunity open to six South Dallas/Fair Park Dallas ISD schools will now be called the Juanita Craft Scholarship.

Maya Nanan won the Spark Award Honorable Mention Award. In 2014, Nanan established the Siblings and Friends Network at age 12 to encourage siblings of special needs individuals and their friends to come together and advocate for the creation of a more inclusive country. 

Inspired by her brother, who was diagnosed with autism eight years ago, she now leads a team of 200 youth volunteers and organizes activities and events to create opportunities, provide a support network and advocate for special individuals. She conceptualized and executed the first Autism Fun Day and Autism Christmas Party in Trinidad and Tobago. 

Her team organizes Autism Outreach Booths throughout the country, especially in rural areas, where they educate the general population on Autism and special needs.