MISSION STATEMENT
The Op-ed Initiative is a call-to-action utilizing 1st Amendment freedoms of speech and press to amplify public discussion of equality, liberty and due process, through the art of op-ed writing.
The Op-ed Initiative is a call-to-action utilizing 1st Amendment freedoms of speech and press to amplify public discussion of equality, liberty and due process, through the art of op-ed writing.
David Topel is an impassioned human rights activist, author, attorney, mediator, non-profit strategic planner, filmmaker, and community builder with forty years’ experience in social justice advocacy.
A Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honors student at the University of Delaware while attaining his BA degree, David studied the Civil Law Tradition at Loyola University College of Law before earning his Juris Doctor from Delaware Law School. Among his experience: Anti-discrimination work within the EEOC, pro bono consulting for a variety of nonprofit organizations including Philadelphia’s Art Sanctuary (utilizing the power of Black Art), The American Foundation for AIDS Research, Founding Board President Emeritus of Philadelphia’s LGBTQ Youth Center - The Attic (founded 1993), and former Global Community Manager to Zumba Fitness LLC where he co-created standards for community building and philanthropy throughout its 185 member countries.
Among his unexpected passions: Nationally ranked competitive swimmer, accomplished sheep farmer - breeding Dorsets, Cheviots, and Romneys for their wool, and a moderately talented actor-singer-dancer for twenty years, having performed regionally and off-Broadway.