1985 Norman Thomas - Eugene V. Debs Dinner
The 1985 Thomas - Debs Dinner was held at the McCormick Center Hotel on Saturday, May 4. Opening remarks were provided by Leon Despres. Miriam Rabban presented the 1985 award to Vicky Starr. Libby Saries presented the award to Ed Asner. Congressman Lane Evans gave the Thomas-Debs Address. Musical entertainment was provided by Allan Schwartz.
Vicky Starr
A child of immigrants, you grew up among coal fields and grape vineyards.
You became a leader in the struggle for justice, but never ceased being one of the rank and file.
You sweated in the Stockyards, and helped those who sweated with you to organize the Packinghouse Workers of America, CIO.
Decades later, you helped your fellow office workers at the University of Chicago to win Union representation.
You have been a strong voice for feminism, and inspiration to younger women.
When others became tired or complacent, you never lost your compassion, indignation, or energy.
For this the Thomas - Debs Award is presented to you by the Norman Thomas - Eugene V. Debs Committee on the 4th of May, 1985.
Edward Asner
You have exemplified the best in the American Labor Movement.
You have rejected the path of comfort and spoken out in behalf of the less powerful.
You have staunchly supported the exploited Screen Extras in your own industry.
You have been an eloquent spokesman for pay equity for all women workers.
You have been an outspoken critic of American military intervention abroad.
By words and deed you have always been in the forefront of the struggle for justice at home and abroad.
For all this, the Norman Thomas - Eugene V. Debs Award is presented to you this 4th day of May, 1985, in Chicago, Illinois.
