Do you know an unsung leader whose tireless, behind-the-scenes work has been critical to the success of the progressive movement in the past year? If so, nominate that person for the fifth annual Maria Leavey Tribute Award. The award will be presented at this year’s Take Back the American Dream conference.

The award honors Leavey, who never worked on the staff of a major organization or media outlet. Instead, she worked out of her small apartment in Washington, D.C., with an outdated computer. But with incredible determination and skill she managed to build contacts at the highest ranks of Washington’s political circles and champion the growth of progressive media, from progressive radio to the emerging blogosphere.

Click here to nominate someone for the award. Nominations must be received by July 25 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Finalists will be announced in August and the winner will be revealed at the closing of the Take Back the American Dream conference in Washington.

Since her death in 2006, the Campaign for America’s Future has honored her legacy with the Maria Leavey Tribute Award, which goes to a person in the progressive movement whose behind-the-scenes work and selfless service embodies Maria’s spirit and has made an invaluable contribution to social justice.

The criteria for the Maria Leavey nominee include:

• A convener who builds connections among diverse members of the progressive movement, cultivating networks of old and new leaders and activists;
• A persistent advocate who overcomes obstacles and marches forward with an enduring commitment and passion for social justice;
• A selfless organizer who works behind the scenes without seeking the limelight or credit for his or her efforts, while lending credit to others; and
• An idea generator who pushes forward creative new ideas, a strong analysis of important issues, or helps build specific new capacities and infrastructure for the progressive movement.