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EAST SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Two Central New Yorkers who have spent their careers standing up for the civil liberties of others were recognized Thursday night.

Civil Rights Attorney Ron Van Norstrand and Betty DeFazio, of Planned Parenthood, were each honored at an awards dinner held by the CNY chapter of the New York Civil Liberties Union.

Van Norstrand was the attorney who represented the Hancock 38 after they were arrested for staging a drone protest at Hancock Air Field. He says it's flattering to be named in the same breath as past award winners.

"To be in the company of Susan Horn, who is the first recipient, and the honorable Langston McKinney, who is the second recipient, is just marvelous," said Van Norstrand.

Van Norstrand is also known for being a fair housing advocate, representing many clients in housing discrimination cases over the years.