2006 City of Justice Awards Dinner Features John Edwards and Andy Stern

The 2006 City of Justice Awards Dinner was a rousing success, thanks to effective outreach and the importance of LAANE’s work to fight for a more just Los Angeles.

Held at the Cathedral Plaza conference center in downtown Los Angeles, the event began with a moving speech by former Senator and 2008 presidential candidate John Edwards, who argued that the United States needed to take the lead once more in fighting poverty. Angelica Salas, executive director of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) and Rev. Donald Wilson, diversity organizer with the Hotel Workers Rising campaign, both were honored at the dinner as was Andy Stern, who received the Miguel Contreras Award. Stern, who is president of the Service Employees International Union, capped the evening with a riveting speech that argued for the need for a modern union movement that can thrive in an increasingly global economy.

Amy Wakeland, Co-Chair of LAANE’s Honorary Board, and Air America talk show host Jackie Guerra emceed the event. Many guests lingered after the program atfor the “After Party at the Foyer” to hear a lively performance by the blues band Mighty Balls of Fire. LAANE exceeded its financial goals for the event.