In his new book “American Dream,” noted author and social activist Jason Deparle examines Bill Clinton’s 1992 vow to “end welfare as we know it” and whether it has been achieved.

Deparle, a senior writer for The New York Times and contributor to the New York Times Magazine, spoke to Loyola’s law school yesterday regarding his book and the issue of America’s struggle with poverty and dependence.

“American Dream” examines the lives of real people and how they are affected by different issues associated with welfare and poverty.

In addition, Deparle’s longtime friend and fellow social activist Sister Helen Prejean, C.S.J., addressed the law school. Prejean, best known for her book “Dead Man Walking: An Eyewitness Account of the Death Penalty in the United States,” is also promoting an upcoming book, “The Death of Innocents: An Eyewitness Account of Wrongful Executions.”

Both Deparle and Prejean were on hand to present the 2005 Gillis Long Public Service awards for pro bono legal service to 14 local lawyers and attorneys.

This year’s recipients are George Bilbe, Borinda Bordlee, L ’90, Shawn Eller, Tim Fallon, Tracy Flemmings, Rich Gallagher, Kara Hadican, Janeen Hicks, John McAuliffe Jr., Roman Money, Patty Mason, Judson Mitchell, James Perry and Anoop Prasad. – Sarah Castagnetta