2 Montclair ‘Heroes’ Earn Award From NJ Congresswoman

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Two Montclair community members are among 25 people being honored as “heroes” by U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill as 2023 draws to a close.

Madeline Gale and Reubena Spence of Montclair are among Sherrill’s “2023 Heroes of NJ-11.”

As part of the awards, residents of the state’s 11th Congressional district were asked to nominate “everyday heroes” in their lives. After an outpouring of submissions, 25 were chosen as this year’s honorees.

According to a news release from the congresswoman, Gale and Spence were nominated by their nephew, Noah Gale, who wrote:

“My aunts Madeline and Reubena are huge advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, civil rights, women's rights, and more. For the past 3 1/2 years, they have helped lead Out Montclair where people who are LGBTQ+ can be heard and in a safe space. Maddi and Reubena have also helped put on the largest Pride Month festival in New Jersey. This year in 2023, the Montclair PrideFest grew and had more than 21,000 attendees. They are also on many other committees such as the Montclair NAACP, Montclair Mutual Aid, and the Civil Rights Commission.”

All 2023 Heroes live or work in NJ-11. They will receive a congressional certificate recognizing their contributions to the community. See the full list here.

“I am so moved by the amazing people throughout our district making a difference in the lives of others,” Sherrill said, noting that this year’s list includes teachers, community leaders, volunteers, health care providers, caregivers and more.

“All are inspiring citizens whose stories should warm everyone’s heart this holiday season,” she emphasized.

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