Lewes library’s Rebecca Lowe receives Kandler Award

Rebecca Lowe may march to the beat of her own drum, but her work in the Lewes community and around Sussex County is something that benefits many. 

As co-founder of Women’s March Sussex and the adult program coordinator and development director at the Lewes library, Lowe looks to improve the lives of those around her in both her personal and professional life. For those efforts, she was honored with the 2022 Gerry Kandler Award by ACLU Delaware Oct. 19 at Sydney’s Restaurant and Lounge outside Milton. 

ACLU Delaware chose Lowe and Corie Priest as recipients of this year’s award because they embody a passion and motivation for justice much like the honor’s namesake. Priest is the community engagement program administrator for the Delaware Department of Justice. Kandler, who passed away in 1985, was the former president of the organization and helped children with physical and intellectual disabilities gain full access to education in Delaware in 1975.

As the adult program coordinator and development director at the Lewes library, Lowe is passionate about ensuring the library is a vibrant hub for free thought and discussion. Arranging partnerships with community organizations and leaders, Lowe has made the library a host for presentations on key civil liberties and rights issues.

Lowe formed Women’s March Sussex in 2017 in response to the Women’s March on Washington, D.C., with a focus on advocating for and empowering everyday women in Sussex County. When Roe v. Wade was reversed this past summer, Lowe organized rallies and pushed for legislative action to protect reproductive rights. 

During her acceptance, a humble Lowe said she owed her success to her co-workers at the Lewes library and sisters from Women’s March Sussex.