Washington, D.C. – In a landmark recognition of courage, conviction, and constitutional defense, Maine Governor Janet Mills will be honored with the prestigious Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award on June 5 for her bold legal battle against the Trump administration, an effort that protected vulnerable children and disabled adults from federal retaliation in a politically charged dispute over transgender rights.
The award, named for the late Attorney General and civil rights champion Robert F. Kennedy, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated “moral courage and a willingness to act on their convictions – even at great personal risk.” Mills joins a distinguished cohort of honorees, including former DOJ Pardon Attorney Elizabeth Oyer and immigrant rights advocate Jeanette Vizguerra, in the 42nd annual presentation of the award.
Mills earned national attention earlier this year after suing the Trump administration when it froze federal nutrition funds destined for Maine’s schools and adult disability programs. The freeze was widely viewed as retaliation for Maine’s refusal to enforce a federal ban on transgender girls participating in school sports. Trump had warned Mills during a February meeting of governors that the state would lose funding if it did not comply.
Unshaken, Mills responded with a defiant “see you in court,” and followed through. By May, the U.S. The Department of Agriculture reversed course and agreed not to suspend Maine’s access to vital federal funds without following due legal procedure marking a clear legal and moral victory for the state and its governor.
“Throughout my career, I have fought to uphold the Constitution of my state and my country,” Mills said in a statement. “I feel it is the responsibility of all Americans to speak in defense of their principles, for the rights of others, and for the rule of law which protects us all.”
Mills’ battle with the Trump administration highlights a growing national flashpoint: the collision of federal policy with state-level protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Her actions not only preserved critical food programs but also became a symbol of resistance against what civil rights groups call the politicization of gender identity to justify discriminatory policy.
The RFK Human Rights organization, led by Kerry Kennedy, daughter of the late senator, said the award aims to spotlight leaders who “stand up to oppression in the nonviolent pursuit of justice.” Mills, they said, exemplifies that ethos.
Kerry Kennedy noted, “Governor Mills chose principle over politics. She defended not only the rights of transgender youth, but the fundamental dignity of every person impacted by political coercion.”
The June 5 ceremony in Washington, D.C. will celebrate Mills and her fellow awardees, offering not only accolades but financial and organizational support for their ongoing advocacy work. For Mills, the recognition is deeply personal.
“As a member of the generation inspired by Robert F. Kennedy, I am humbled and grateful,” Mills said. “This award affirms that decency, rule of law, and courage still matter in American public life.”
In an era of polarized politics, Mills’ victory offers a reminder: sometimes, the most powerful act of leadership is simply saying “no” and meaning it.
