On Saturday, Oct. 2, Border Action Network will honor state legislator Kyrsten Sinema, the Rev. Randy J. Mayer and
community organizer Clarisa Flores for their work defending human rights in Arizona at the organization's Human Rights Gala.

The event, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Mercado San Agustin (100 S. Avenida del Convento), is co-chaired by U.S. Congressman Raul Grijalva and Tucson City Councilwoman Regina Romero. Entertainment comes from Sergio Mendoza y Amigos, Mike Ronstadt and Family, Pablo and Friends and the fire-performance of Poi-Zen. Tickets are $50. There will also be hors d'oeuvres and a silent auction.

For ticket information, go to www.borderaction.org.

A press release on the award recipients:

Representative Kyrsten Sinema serves as the Assistant Leader to the Democratic Caucus in the House of Representatives and represents central Phoenix in the Arizona Legislature District 15. Now in her third term, she is the ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee and the ranking Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee.

"Representative Sinema was one of the most vocal state legislators who fought against SB1070 this year," said Jennifer Allen, Border Action's executive director. "She spoke up for human rights when others would not, and for that, she deserves distinct recognition."

Reverend Randy J. Mayer is an ordained United Church of Christ minister. Not only has he helped form several humanitarian aid groups in border areas, but he also serves as Co-president of Borderlinks.

"Reverend Mayer has been working for immigrant rights for more than 12 years, and is an extraordinary leader in the humanitarian aid community," said Allen. "He is a humble, hard-working man and we hope to draw some positive attention to his efforts with this award."

Clarisa Flores has been a community organizer with Border Action Network since 2004 after arriving in the United States from Mexico in 1998. She is a certified Human Rights Promoter with Border Action and organizes Hispanic immigrant communities in Arizona.

"Ms. Flores is one of our most active members, and has dedicated endless hours to organizing and educating in churches, schools, offices and homes across the state," said Allen. "She has helped shape our organization, and we want to recognize her as an excellent example of the difference one person can make."

Allen concluded, "These individuals lead a growing movement for human rights and dignity in our state. We are proud to recognize them and the work they do to make Arizona a state that considers the voices of all."