The City of Madison is inviting the community to submit nominations for its annual Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Civility in Public Discourse Award which recognizes City of Madison residents who share Erlanger’s dedication to, and passion for, public policy, civility, individual and human rights.
The award honors Jeffrey Clay Erlanger, who died on June 10, 2007, and spent a significant part of his life committed to public service, focusing on constructive advocacy and civil debate, fairness, openness, and effective representation, according to a press release from the City.
“The COVID pandemic has isolated many of us and divided our country,” said Madison Mayor Satya-Rhodes Conway in a statement. “Now, more than ever, we need to be kind to one another – in government and throughout our community. This award is an opportunity to honor Jeff’s legacy – the legacy of an individual who worked with others in a respectful manner, regardless of political affiliation, religious belief, age, race, sexual orientation or any of the many other differences that contribute to our growing lack of civility. Help us identify and lift up the Madisonians working to bring people together by nominating them for this award.”
Erlanger served on the City of Madison’s Economic Development Commission; he was chair of the Commission on People with Disabilities; chair of the board of directors of the Community Living Alliance; and ran for the Madison Common Council in 2002. He also held a number of other significant positions in the community. One of his greatest accomplishments was his successful push for the accessible taxicab service in Madison today.
The award is presented annually at a Common Council meeting close to the November 30 birthday of Jeff Erlanger. The recipient of the Erlanger Award, and the person who nominated them, will each be able to designate a non-profit charity to receive $250.
The 2021 award will be presented on Dec. 3. All nominations must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 1. Nomination forms may be submitted by e-mail at [email protected] or via fax at 608-267-8671. Please include “Erlanger Award” in the subject line of email communications.
