The Colorado Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice honored NARAL Pro-Choice Colorado executive director Karen Middleton and Boulder physician Warren Hern at its annual reception, called Faith and Freedom, Thursday night.

“This year’s unprecedented political challenges have been met with vigorous public engagement and an energized public,” the coalition said in a statement. “It is a perfect time to honor two long-time inspirational activists who have been defending reproductive rights for decades.”

The coalition hails itself as the state’s leading voice for people of faith who support reproductive justice, which it defines as “the complete physical, mental, spiritual, political, social and economic well-being of women and girls, based on the full achievement and protection of women’s human rights.”

Middleton is a former Colorado legislator who has led the reproductive rights advocacy organization since 2013.

“Colorado RCRC reminds us that faith, freedom and a belief that women have the right to control their own destiny will always be a critical part of our work.” Middleton stated. “The faith community brings an important perspective and voice to protecting reproductive rights. This award means so much to me because of the history of this movement in Colorado, and I am honored to receive it.”

Hern is an abortion doctor who opened the Boulder Abortion Clinic in 1973. He has often been the target of threats and protests for his work, especially for providing late-term abortions.