(L to R): Councilwoman Myrtle Cole and Percy Pinkney
Hundreds of people gathered recently to pay tribute to Percy Pinkney in a multi-city birthday and awards celebration recently. Pinkney, current state president of the Black American Political Association of California (BAPAC) and long-time senior advisor to United States Senator Dianne Feinstein, welcomed celebrities, elected officials, and friends. Festivities began in Los Angeles with a luncheon attended by over 100.
Special guest speakers included City Attorney Mike Feuer, City Controller Ron Galperin, Carson Mayor Jim Dear, Reverend Leonard Jackson, and key BAPAC officers Thomasina Reed, Ted Frazier, and Roy Willis. The mood was lively as old friends reconvened, and Mr. Pinkney briefly took to the microphone to deliver a speech that was met with thunderous applause. Following the luncheon, Pinkney and a contingent from BAPAC’s Los Angeles Chapter headed down to San Diego to a lavish, formal affair. The gala event, hosted by BAPAC’s San Diego Chapter under the chairmanship of Dr. Willie Blair and vice chairmanship of Kathleen Harmon, was attended by over 300 people.
Many elected officials were present at the event, including Assemblywoman & California State Legislature Speaker-Elect Toni Atkins, Councilman David Alvarez, and Assemblywoman Dr. Shirley Weber. Councilwoman Myrtle Cole was also on hand to present Mr. Pinkney with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. The gala’s theme, “Celebrating the Fighters Within Our Community” certainly applies to Percy Pinkney’s long career of advocacy, service, and the pursuit of social justice for all. When asked about the impressive turnout at both events, Mr. Pinkney said, “I am honored to have so many dear friends take the time to be here and celebrate with me. I have been fortunate in my years to have met so many wonderful people. I am truly grateful.”