NBCUniversal: USA Network Recognizes Community Heroes

As part of its award-winning “Characters Unite” public service campaign, to address social injustices and bridge cultural divides, USA Network, along with its distributors, announced the 2013 recipients of the Characters Unite Awards Monday, June 10 the Cable Show in Washington, D.C.

Ten winners were selected from hundreds of nominees for their extraordinary efforts in combating hate, intolerance and discrimination worldwide, and making significant contributions to champion civil and human rights in their communities.

"Congratulations to this year’s Characters Unite Award winners who, in the face of adversity, have worked tirelessly to fight hate and discrimination while promoting acceptance in their communities," said Mac Budill, President, NBCUniversal TV Networks Distribution. "Along with our distributors, we’re proud to recognize these leaders for their remarkable efforts."

"We applaud these ten incredible role models for the tremendous contributions they have made in their communities," said Toby Graff, senior vice president, public affairs, USA Network. "They truly embody the Characters Unite mission with their dedication to combating discrimination and promoting greater acceptance. With these grants and recognition, we are proud to help each honoree expand their important efforts."

Each honoree will be acknowledged during a hometown award ceremony and will receive a $5,000 grant from USA Network and participating local distributors to support his/her project or related nonprofit organization. Additionally, honorees will be featured on-air in a PSA, online at charactersunite.com and via a social media promotion campaign.

Nominations for the Characters Unite Awards were submitted by the public on charactersunite.com during Characters Unite Month in February, a time when the network leverages all its platforms to shine a special spotlight on the importance of combating hate and intolerance.

For the full release, click here.