This year, the Jon-Henri Damski award was given early. Generally the award is given it is Nov. 1, the date of Damski's passing; however, longtime activist and friend of Damski Lori Cannon felt otherwise. "I'm confident that Jon-Henri would be tickled with this year's recipient," remarked Cannon.
The award which is given to individuals with a "life's work that is in keeping with the Damski ethic and service to the community," was awarded to Sun-Times columnist and author Neil Steinberg, an ally of the LGBT community. Steinberg not only raised his family in Lakeview but has continuously supported the LGBT community through his high profile newspaper column.
The small gathering, which took place at Sidetrack June 18, was attended by a who's who of past recipients, including Charlotte Newfeld, Arthur Johnston and Rick Garcia.
With Steinberg as the recipient and a room filled with Damski's friends, there was a lot said that made it clear that the community and the world has missed an icon since his passing 15 years ago.
Babble publisher Malone Sizelove called Damski an "humanitarian anarchist," and that "he taught me what queer thinking was." Upon receiving his award, Steinberg noted that he found it easy to embrace one of Damski's mottos as his own: "Why make a friend when you can make an enemy?"