JONAH is founded on the belief that it is only our collective perspectives and actions put together that can truly make an impact. We do not do justice work in isolation – we do it together. JONAH leadership started the Justice Ally Award three years ago to acknowledge those individuals in the community that promote justice work outside of JONAH in their everyday lives, to bring people together and live and breathe what it means to create justice. Each nominee is an ally of JONAH and so much more. Our first recipient was Chris Hambuch-Boyle, and our second recipient was Ginny Close.
Previously our task force leaders nominated individuals they have partnered with and the JONAH Executive Committee chose the winner. This year we invited our broader JONAH membership to submit nominations, and our task force leaders selected the recipient.
It is my pleasure to introduce to you this year’s nominees. The following descriptions were written by the individuals who nominated them:
Jessica Barrera – Jessica consistently shows up for people with compassion, integrity, and a genuine commitment to justice. She doesn’t just talk about making our community more equitable, she puts that commitment into action and makes people feel heard, respected, and valued. Jessica is the kind of ally who makes a real difference simply by how she shows up for others.
Julia Bennker – Julia has gone above and beyond to tirelessly fight for our children, for their care, and for their caregivers by uniting families and lifting up their voices, using her voice to get agencies across Wisconsin on board with advocating for childcare dollars, and never giving up with legislators until the message is received and things are better for the childcare industry.
Micah Davis – Micah and his business Soul Shine Photography do an amazing job at sharing an important message here in Eau Claire. He has a unique perspective that helps others open up their own perception and to see what’s really important. Micah is a strong ally to have during these troubling times.
Bill Laman – Bill started the People’s Protest on Wednesday afternoons, and has kept it going for a year, to bring the community together. He also volunteers his time with Chippewa Valley Indivisible, the immigrant community, and Sojourner House. He has been a uniting force at a time when the community was at risk of dividing and he has been an inspirational role model for others.
Margaret Leonard – For running Dotters Books, a great place to gain alternative insights into what matters in the world. The sense of welcome and community formed there is amazing.
Michelle Pride – Michelle’s life is totally committed to social justice. She is a strong advocate for those who experience food insecurity, advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion in our congregations through the Racial Justice Task Force for the Northwest Synod of the ELCA, volunteers for the Chippewa Valley Street Ministry, and more. Whenever there is something going on in the Chippewa Valley that involves caring for people, Michelle is sure to be involved–it is her vocation.
Angie Stokes – Angie approaches justice as something that must be practiced, not simply discussed. She listens to people whose experiences are often overlooked, challenges systems to do better, and uses her position to remove barriers wherever she can. She is willing to ask difficult questions, take responsibility for moving work forward, and remain engaged even when progress is slow. Our community is stronger because she does not stop at identifying problems – she pulls people together and helps turn good intentions into meaningful change.
Pa Thao – For over a decade, Pa has worked collaboratively to build belonging, amplify voices too often left unheard, and create opportunities for people to lead and advocate for themselves. As the Founder of Power Up Eau Claire, she has helped strengthen Hmong civic engagement, develop community leaders, address basic needs, and create spaces where culture, community, and collective power can thrive. Her commitment to justice extends across many parts of our community—from advocating for survivors of violence and supporting immigrant and refugee families to advancing educational equity, food access, civic participation, and representation in public leadership. As an Eau Claire Area School District Board Commissioner, nonprofit leader, organizer, farmer advocate, and mother, Pa consistently brings the same values into every space she enters: dignity, equity, courage, and a deep belief in the power of community.
JONAH leadership is happy to announce the recipient of its third annual Justice Ally Award:
Pa Thao!
Pa’s work has helped make the Chippewa Valley a more welcoming, connected, and equitable place, and her leadership continues to remind us that lasting change happens when we choose courage, community, and action. Pa embodies what it means to be a justice ally: someone who not only speaks up for justice, but consistently turns her values into action. She builds bridges, challenges inequitable systems, creates space for others to lead, and continues to show up even when doing so is difficult. creates spaces for inclusive, collective advocacy for those unheard survivors. Thanks for all you do, Pa! Congratulations!
For our readers – Please send Pa a note of recognition, start observing stand out justice allies so you can nominate someone next summer (and thank them as you see it), and recognize what you do and can do to contribute! We are better together!