Peace activist Cora Weiss, a seasonal resident of Aquinnah, was honored with the Ann S. Kheel prize for Exceptional Dedication and Service to Humanity by the New York Urban League at its 46th annual Frederick Douglass Dinner on May 12.

Mrs. Weiss was recognized along with former New York city mayor David Dinkins and celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson for their efforts to promote equal opportunity and civil rights.

  More than 340 guests, including Mayor Bloomberg and former Gov. David Paterson, attended the event named in honor of the former slave who rose to prominence as one of the nation’s most influential abolitionists.

First held in 1965, the Frederick Douglass Awards dinner has recognized a wide range of leaders whose contributions have helped break down racial obstacles and promote opportunities for the less fortunate.

Proceeds from the evening go to support the League’s programs to provide young people with education and adults with job training and placement.