Veteran actress Jenifer Lewis, known in many circles as the Mother of Black Hollywood, is among the honorees to be celebrated June 11 as featured guests at the Los Angeles Urban League’s 50th Anniversary Whitney M. Young, Jr. Awards & Celebration.
The event, also featuring Miles Brown, known for his role on black-ish, and music icon Doug E. Fresh, is set for June 11 at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. The evening begins with a red carpet and reception, followed by dinner and the awards program.
Doug E. Fresh will perform live, along with October London and Bebe Winans. The event also features appearances by William Stanford Davis, George Wallace, Luenell, Edwina Findley, Kiki Shepard, and Vanessa Bell Calloway.
Jenifer Lewis will receive the Visionary Award at the ceremony. Lewis is recognized for her work as an actress and author, including her role on black-ish. She is also known for her advocacy in mental health and civil rights.
George Fatheree III will be honored with the Legal Advocate Award. He is a civil rights attorney credited with legal work that led to the return of Bruce’s Beach to the descendants of its original Black owners.
Nicole Harper Rawlins will accept the Corporate Partner Award. She is Senior Vice President at City National Bank and is recognized for her efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion in corporate leadership and financial equity.
Norm Nixon will be presented with the John Mack Legacy Award. Nixon is a former NBA champion, entrepreneur, and philanthropist known for his work in youth empowerment and community development.
Cynthia Mitchell-Heard serves as President & CEO of the Los Angeles Urban League. She will welcome guests to the event.
The Whitney M. Young, Jr. Awards have honored civic and cultural leaders for five decades. The awards recognize individuals who support the Los Angeles Urban League’s mission to advance equal opportunities through education, job training, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.
Proceeds from the event benefit programs that empower underserved communities across Los Angeles. The gala is a signature fundraiser for the organization, bringing together leaders in advocacy, business, entertainment, and public service.
Community members, supporters, and partners will gather to celebrate the achievements of this year’s honorees and the enduring impact of the Los Angeles Urban League. The evening will highlight the organization’s ongoing commitment to social justice and economic empowerment.
The Los Angeles Urban League continues to be a leading force in addressing inequality and fostering opportunity for all residents of the city. The 50th anniversary marks a milestone in the organization’s history of service and advocacy.
