Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson Honored by Black Democrats of Westchester

Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson received the M. Paul Redd Award from the Black Democrats of Westchester at their annual celebration. The Award, named for one of the key founders of the Black Democrats of Westchester, honors those who continue in Redd’s footsteps. He dedicated his life to the advancement of civil rights as a Gold Life Member of the NAACP and president of the Westchester/Putnam Affirmative Action Program. He helped train and place thousands of underrepresented individuals into gainful employment. Redd’s instrumental role in New York’s “Redd Bill,” set in motion a series of anti-discrimination housing legislation. Additionally, he purchased and maintained the first African American newspaper in Westchester County, The County Press.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this outstanding award,” said Dr. Richardson, senior pastor Grace Baptist Church in Mt. Vernon and chair of the Conference of National Black Churches. “It is a wonderful thing to have your contributions acknowledged. I had the pleasure to know Paul Redd. Not only a servant leader, he was an advocate for social justice and a pillar of the community. I thank the Black Democrats of Westchester for recognizing my vigorous efforts to uplift and unite the Black community near and far. I live my life in the hope and joy that my living will not be in vain because I know that only what I do for the Lord will last.”