The Dollie Burwell Prophetic Action Award

In 1982, Dollie Burwell was a lead organizer for a six-week nonviolent action campaign against the dumping of toxic waste in Warren County, North Carolina. Over 500 protestors were arrested during this watershed event that gave birth to the environmental justice movement. Burwell was joined in her efforts by her church family at Oak Level United Church of Christ, her pastor the Rev. Leon White, and the UCC’s Commission for Racial Justice. In recognition of the vital power of bold faith leadership that publicly challenges the corporate and governmental institutions responsible for environmental injustices, the Dollie Burwell Prophetic Action Award is given each year to a congregation, ministerial team, or advocacy group in the UCC that has exemplified the tradition of prophetic action that runs from biblical times to today. The winner of this award is announced at the annual UCC Earth Summit held each April.

Past Winners

2023: Coral Gables United Church of Christ

2024: The Outdoor Ministries of the Heartland Conference of the United Church of Christ

2025: Asylum Hill Congregational Church