Initiative on Cities Co-Director Thomas Menino Honored by American Bar Association

IoC Co-Director Thomas Menino Honored by American Bar Association

On Friday August 8, Initiative on Cities (IoC) Co-Director Thomas Menino was honored by the American Bar Association (ABA) Section of State and Local Government Law and presented with the Jefferson Fordham Award for Advocacy.

In Boston for the 2014 ABA Annual Meeting, the Section of State and Local Government Law hosted an awards luncheon at which four individuals were recognized for their commitment to justice on a state and city level. Lauded for his decades of public service, including 10 years as a Boston City Councilor and 20 years as Mayor of Boston, Menino was chosen as the 2014 Advocacy Award winner for his accomplishments in making Boston a more open, inclusive, and thriving city.

Reflecting on his time in office, Menino emphasized the importance of developing a strong sense of trust between city officials and the public. He urged mayors and city leaders to always stand by their oath to serve the people. “Be their leader, their advocate, and their biggest champion,” Menino said. “When you do that, when you do the little things to show the people that you truly care, you will earn their trust. And when you earn their trust, you can make amazing things happen.”

Also honored were Larry Ethridge of Louisville, KY, Edward Sullivan of Portland, OR, and Jessica Bacher of White Plains, NY.