Ron Sable Award for Activism

A living representation of the progressive ideals he so adamantly promoted, the late Dr. Ron Sable was a model donor/activist. In his lifetime, Ron worked for gay and lesbian liberation, women’s liberation, reproductive rights, just treatment of prisoners, and national health care. He helped develop services for individuals with HIV/AIDS at Cook County Hospital, was an active member of the Democratic Socialists of America, and pioneered a position as one of the first openly gay candidates for alderman in Chicago. Ron was a founder of Chicago’s AIDS Foundation and served as a member of the Crossroads Fund board for ten years.

His death in 1993 was a great loss to the progressive philanthropic community. However, Ron’s legacy lives on. The Ron Sable Award for Activism is a living memorial to the man whose clarity, wisdom, honesty, and leadership continues to guide Chicago’s community members. Each year, awards are distributed to a grantee organization and an individual or group who has made a significant impact on Chicago's communities. We are proud to honor Ron and his lifelong commitment to social change. He was an inspiring example for us all!

Ron Sable Award for Activism Recipients

2021

Brave Space Alliance

2020

Raise Your Hand Illinois for Public Education

2019

#NOCOPACADEMY

2018

PASO – West Suburban Action Project

2017

Mariame Kaba and Project NIA

2016

Invisible Institute