TheADL presented its Milton Popkin Award to Mayor Annise Parker at its Southwest Regional  board meeting on October 22 at Tony’s Restaurant.

The Popkin Award recognizes individuals and institutions who have made a unique contribution toward furthering the mission of ADL, and toward translating our country’s ideals into a way of life for all Americans and toward promoting intergroup relations.  It was named in honor of the late Milton Popkin whose distinguished ADL service included serving as a National Commissioner and chair of the regional board.

Former board chairs Janet Pozmantier and Mark Finkelstein spoke about the Mayor’s commitment to equality and respect and thanked her for helping the ADL carry out its mission “in so many ways.”

Board member Jonathan Paine, who is Milton Popkin’s grandson, spoke about his grandfather and his belief that “all people should have the same opportunities in life.”  He said that Milton Popkin used his billboard to support numerous causes he felt were important, including those that related to civil rights.  Paine told the Mayor his grandfather would agree she was deserving of the award.

Mayor Parker accepted the award saying “I hope and trust I will continue to be an active supporter” of equal rights.  She said she was inspired by ADL’s No Place for Hate® Initiative, and took it to the National Conference of Mayors, where she was made the new leader of a nationwide campaign against bullying.

She thanked ADL for the award and “for continuing to inspire me.”