A former Chief Justice of the Georgia Supreme Court and the leaders of a public defender's training center are being honored by the Southern Center for Human Rights.

The organization is honoring former chief justice Harold G. Clark with a lifetime achievement award during their Justice Taking Root benefit reception May 7 at the Carter Presidential Center.

Also being honored are Illham Askia and Jonathan Rapping of Gideon's Promise — formerly known as the Southern Public Defender Training Center.

Organizers say they're honoring Clarke, Askia and Rapping for making strides toward ensuring equal justice for all.

Tags: Southern Center for Human Rights, justice, equal rights