HerStory Award: Celebrating Women Peacemakers in Maryland
In Honor of Women’s History Month & International Day of Women
On Sunday, March 22, the Peace Starts With Me Alliance—in partnership with the Universal Peace Federation (UPF), Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP), American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC), and Capital Family Church (CFC)—hosted the HerStory Award at the Washington Times Building Ballroom. The program brought together faith leaders, community leaders, and guests to celebrate women whose leadership and service are shaping a more just and peaceful society.
The evening opened with a warm and uplifting atmosphere, including live music from the Capital Family Church band and an opening prayer offered by Pastor Miata Sirleaf of Shekinah Glory Global Ministries International. A keynote address by Mrs. Kaeleigh Moffitt, Regional President of WFWP North America, set the tone for the program, highlighting the essential role of women as peacemakers and the importance of recognizing and uplifting their contributions across all sectors of society.
The centerpiece of the program was the HerStory Award ceremony, honoring four outstanding women leaders for their impact and dedication:
Rev. Dr. Angela Kittrell, Founder, Emmanuel Faith Ministries
Ms. Porscha Lee Taylor, DC President, Youth for Human Rights International
Minister Meisha Dawson, Executive Steward, The Hill
Ms. Yukia Hugee-Wilson, Founder, The Farewell Agency
Each awardee was introduced by a nominator who shared personal reflections on their leadership and character, followed by heartfelt acceptance remarks that inspired the audience with stories of faith, perseverance, and service.
The program also featured an inspiring interlude performance by the New Hope Academy Dance Team, adding a creative and expressive dimension to the evening. Closing remarks from Rev. Ryan Lindsay Arrendell, Faith Community Liaison from the Mayor’s Office (Ward 5–8), affirmed the importance of partnerships between faith communities and civic leadership in advancing peace and unity.
The evening concluded with a closing prayer by Rev. Randy Francis and a time of fellowship over dinner, allowing participants to connect more deeply and celebrate the honorees together.
The HerStory Award program was a meaningful expression of the Peace Starts With Me vision—uplifting women leaders, strengthening community bonds, and inspiring a renewed commitment to peacebuilding rooted in faith, family, and service.