The application period for the 2026 Award is now open.

Named after the renowned federal district judge from Dallas, Texas, the Sarah T. Hughes Civil Rights Award was created to honor that man or woman who promotes the advancement of civil and human rights amongst us, and who exemplifies Judge Hughes’ spirit and legacy of devoted service and leadership in the cause of equality. Judge Hughes was a pioneer in the fight for civil rights, due process, equal protection, and the rights of women.

Award Eligibility 

The Award will be presented each year to an attorney or judge whose career achievements have made a difference in advancing the causes that were important to Judge Hughes. Such work may include either ground-breaking achievement or a body of sustained and dedicated work in the area of civil rights, due process, and equal protection.

The nominee should have at least 10 years of practice. The nominee must either be a member in good standing of a state bar association or retired. The nominee should demonstrate sustained and verifiable excellence in the legal profession, and be of good character.

The nomination package should include the following:

  1. A resume and biography of the nominee.
  2. A 500- to 800-word description of the career achievements of the nominee as a lawyer or a jurist in the area of civil rights, due process, and equal protection.
  3. No more than three testimonials or letters of recommendation.
  4. No more than three articles about the nominee. Any such articles must be primarily focused on the nominee’s work in civil rights, due process, and equal protection.
  5. A list of other awards the nominee has received.

NOTE: The award will be presented during the FBA Annual Meeting and Convention. The award recipient will be expected to attend the Annual Meeting and Convention to accept the award in person. Travel reimbursement for the award recipient will be provided.

2026 award applications are due May 15.

Please fill out the following fields in full and upload all supporting documents.

2026 Hon. Sarah T. Hughes Civil Rights Award Application

Maximum file size: 15.36MB

Maximum file size: 15.36MB

Maximum file size: 15.36MB

Attach Letter of Nomination *

Maximum file size: 15.36MB

A 500- to 800-word description of the career achievements of the nominee as a lawyer or a jurist in the area of civil rights, due process, and equal protection.

Maximum file size: 15.36MB

Any such articles must be primarily focused on the nominee’s work in civil rights, due process, and equal protection.

Maximum file size: 15.36MB

Any such articles must be primarily focused on the nominee’s work in civil rights, due process, and equal protection.

If you have any questions regarding this application, please contact awards@fedbar.org.

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