California State, USA – Adama Kiatamba Dempster has been publicly honoured for his exceptional service to humanity and his global leadership in promoting justice, peace, and human rights during an official floor session of the California State Assembly, which took place at the California State Capitol in Sacramento.
On April 27, 2026, during the Assembly’s live session, members gathered to honour notable people who had made noteworthy contributions to society and to perform formal legislative business. Dr. Jamila Land, a well-known activist and leader in criminal justice reform who is renowned for promoting equality, justice, and community empowerment via civic participation, recommended and advocated for this distinction.
Adama Kiatamba Dempster is a distinguished Liberian human rights and justice advocate with over 18 years of professional experience in human rights, transitional justice, law, diplomacy, development, humanitarian work, and policy advocacy.
He is currently pursuing a law degree at the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law, Liberia. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy from African Methodist Episcopal University.
Mr. Dempster serves as the National Secretary General and Co-Founder of the Civil Society Human Rights Advocacy Platform of Liberia, where he plays a leading role in advancing human rights, justice, and accountability. He previously served as Chief Human Rights Investigator at the Independent National Commission on Human Rights of Liberia, contributing significantly to national accountability and justice processes.
In 2024, he was selected as a Fellow of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), focusing on Transitional Justice in Africa and the United States. Mr. Dempster is a recipient of the 2023 Peace and Justice Award from the Center for African Peace and Conflict Resolution at California State University, Sacramento, recognizing his impactful contributions to peacebuilding and justice. He also received the 2022 National Human Rights Activist Award in Liberia.
He serves as an International Ambassador for the Bring The Peace Movement, a U.S.-based civil rights organization, and is an active member of the Global Citizen network. He also graced the 34th Annual Africa Peace Award Dinner honoring Joseph Nyuma Boakai, hosted by the Center for African Peace and Conflict Resolution at California State University, Sacramento.
In his capacity as National Secretary General and Co-Founder of Liberia’s Civil Society Human Rights Advocacy Platform, Mr. Dempster is still important to promoting lasting peace and elevating the views of under-represented groups. The California State Assembly’s award reflects the expanding global influence of Liberian leadership in peacebuilding and human rights advocacy, as well as the significance of international alliances in furthering justice.
Leaders from the community, legislators, and Liberian friends came together to observe and commemorate this momentous occasion, demonstrating a common dedication to equity, justice, peace, and human dignity. “This honor represents not just my work, but the collective struggle and resilience of those who continue to fight for justice and accountability,” said Mr. Dempster. “It is a reminder that our efforts must remain steadfast in building a more just and peaceful world.”
The event reinforces the role of local institutions in identifying and assisting international activists and represents a major turning point in the development of connections between California and international human rights movements. Notably, the California Legislative Black Caucus, which continues to support laws and programs that promote justice, equity, and opportunities for Black communities throughout California and beyond, also hailed the recognition.
