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The Welmore Cook Advocacy & Service Award honors exceptional advocacy and service that have made a lasting impact on the lives and visibility of Black LGBTQ+ individuals. Recipients demonstrate an unwavering commitment to advancing equity, creating meaningful change, and ensuring that Black LGBTQ+ voices are heard and respected in all arenas of society. Welmore Cook is one of the co-founders of Black Lesbian & Gay Pride Day which is now known as DC Black Pride.
2026
Courtney R. Snowden
2025
Tracey Africa Norman
2021
DeMarc A. Hickson PhD
Angela Brown2019
Bishop Allyson N. Abrams
Bishop Emeritus Diana Williams
Nii-Quartelai Quartey2018
Anthony Fox
Anika Simpson, Ph.D.2017
Countess Clarke Cooper
Daryl Wilson2016
Aisha C. Moodie-Mills
Darrin Glymph2015
Steven Walker
Eboné F. Bell
2014
Patricia Corbert
Rahim Briggs2013
Dr. Imani Woody
Courtney Williams2012
Leandra Gilliam2011
Khadijah Tribble
Ron Collins
2010
Charlotte Smallwood
Jeffrey Richardson2004
Carlene Cheatam
Otis “Buddy” Sutson2003
Barbara Ann Chinn
Ron Lewis2002
Rev. Dyan McCray
Ron Simmons2001
Toni Collins
Donna Payne2000
Cassandra McFerson
Dr. Theo Hodge1999
Earline Budd
Everett E. Hamilton, Jr.1998
Rayceen Pendarvis
Robyn C. Holden1996
Vicki Harris
Michael Saint-Andres1995
Wanda Alston
Thomas Gleaton1994
Michelle Parkerson
Aundres Scott1993
Ric Irick
Willette Griffin -
The Ernest Hopkins Public Health Leadership Award celebrates a visionary leader in national HIV/AIDS advocacy whose lifelong dedication to public health has strengthened and empowered Black LGBTQ+ communities. This honor recognizes the courage, expertise, and persistence required to address one of the most urgent health challenges of our time while championing equality and dignity for all. Ernest Hopkins is one of the co-founders of Black Lesbian & Gay Pride Day which is now known as DC Black Pride.
2026
Clover Barnes
2025
A. Cornelius Baker
2021
Ernest Hopkins -
The President’s Award, renamed in 2025 as the Earl D. Fowlkes Jr. President’s Award in honor of the Center for Black Equity’s founder and first president, is presented at the discretion of the President & CEO of the Center for Black Equity to honor an individual whose exemplary contributions over the past year have strengthened and advanced Black LGBTQ+ communities. Recipients embody excellence, dedication, and leadership that reflect the mission and values of the Center for Black Equity and the visionary spirit of Earl D. Fowlkes Jr.
2026
Harold J. Phillips, MRP
2025
Dr. David Johns
2021
Stephaun Elite Wallace
2019
Derrick Johnson
2018
Genise Chambers-Woods
2017
Aaron Bryant
2016
Kenya Hutton -
Honors individuals whose tireless, behind-the-scenes efforts have quietly but powerfully advanced the betterment of the Black LGBTQ+ community. Established in 2017, this award celebrates everyday heroes whose impact is deeply felt, even if not always visible.
2026
Nikki Alexander-Tumblin
2025
Jack Mizrahi
2019
Steven Wilson
2018
Mary Bowman
Achim Jeremiah Howard
2017
Shannon Garçon
SaVanna Wanzer -
The Center for Black Equity Leadership Award honors Black LGBTQ+ leaders whose professional excellence and strategic vision drive progress within their industries and communities. This award recognizes individuals who lead with integrity and innovation, creating pathways for representation, equity, and empowerment. Recipients inspire others not only through advocacy, but through transformative leadership that changes systems, builds opportunity, and strengthens community resilience.
2026
Darryl G. Moore
2025
Hope Giselle-Godsey
2021
TAG: The Alliance Group at University of DC
2019
Kahlib Barton-Garçon
2019
Queen Adesuyi
2018
Impulse Group DC
2017
Check It Enterprises, LLC
2016
Guy Anthony
Victoria Kirby York
2014
AJ King -
Recognizes outstanding leadership within the Black transgender community. Named for Earline Budd, a longtime advocate for transgender and civil rights, this award honors those who demonstrate courage, resilience, and transformative leadership.
2026
Tori Cooper
2021
Charmaine Eccles
2019
Shi-Queeta-Lee
2018
Lisa Monet Dupree -
The Center for Black Equity Small Business Award honors a business whose dedication to community investment, authentic representation, and economic empowerment has made a significant impact in LGBTQ+ spaces. This recognition highlights the essential role of entrepreneurship in driving progress and visibility.
2026
The FreeLux Project
2025
MOBI (Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative)
2021
Greg Evans Real Estate Group
2019
Michael Beale / Mb Staffing Services2018
D.C. Allen - The Crew Club
Everett E. Hamilton / Octane Public Relations
2004
Shaka King
2003
Nob Hill -
The Charlotte Smallwood Volunteer Service Award honors the invaluable contributions of DC Black Pride volunteers whose time, energy, and commitment help make the celebration possible. Named for longtime volunteer Charlotte Smallwood, this award recognizes individuals whose spirit of service reflects the heart of Pride — giving generously of themselves to uplift, support, and strengthen the community.
2022
Rell Jones
2021
Jaye Wynn
2019
Derrick “Strawberry” Cox
2018
Kathy Neal
2017
David Maurice Parker
2016
Jason Lyric
2015
Genise Chambers-Woods
2014
C. Hawkins
2013
Donald Burch, III -
The Alan Sharpe Artistic Excellence Award honors the power of art as a vehicle for change. Recipients are recognized for their transformative artistic contributions and compelling storytelling that illuminate Black LGBTQ+ experiences, preserve cultural narratives, and inspire new generations to embrace authenticity and creativity.
2025: Patrik-Ian Polk
2021: Courtney Baker-Oliver III
2019: Alan Sharpe -
Recognizes an organization whose leadership, creativity, and service have created meaningful change in the lives of Black LGBTQ+ people. Named for pioneering lesbian activist Ruth Ellis, this award honors collective action that advances equity and belonging.
2026
In Our Own Voices, Inc.
2014
DC Metropolitan Police Gay & Lesbian Liaison Unit (GLLU)
2004
Adodi - DC
2003
ZAMI
2002
Jackson State University Mississippi Urban Research Center
2001
Gay Men of African Descent (GMAD)
2000
Sexual Minority Youth Assistance League -
The Bishop Kwabena Rainey Cheeks Spiritual & Community Leadership Award recognizes a lifetime of spiritual and community leadership dedicated to creating inclusive spaces of faith, healing, and support for Black LGBTQ+ individuals. Honorees embody compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to bridging the gap between spirituality and full acceptance.
2026
Rev. Dr. Carmarion D. Anderson
Bishop Steven Sawyer
2025
Bishop OC Allen
2021
Bishop Kwabena Rainey Cheeks -
The Trans Power in Media Award recognizes a transgender individual whose contributions in television, film, digital media, or journalism have meaningfully expanded representation and redefined how society views and values transgender people. Recipients exemplify excellence, authenticity, and courage—using their visibility to affirm identity, promote inclusion, and foster social change through storytelling.
Inaugurated with the recognition of TS Madison—a groundbreaking entertainer, producer, and advocate whose work has elevated the presence and power of trans voices in mainstream media—this award celebrates those who continue to use media as a force for truth, empowerment, and progress.
2026
Monroe Alise
2025
TS Madison -
The BE. Icon Award celebrates an individual who truly embodies the spirit of the BE. Gala — someone whose passion, leadership, and impact leave a lasting mark on our community. Nominated and chosen by the public, the recipient inspires others, uplifts those around them, and uses their voice and actions to create meaningful change. It’s a tribute to the everyday hero whose influence may not always make headlines but whose presence is powerfully felt.
2026
Malachi Stewart
2025
A’Jay Jackson -
Recognizes individuals or organizations in the creative arts, humanities, or media whose work has created positive and affirming images of Black LGBTQ+ communities. This award celebrates the power of representation to inspire change and pride.
2026
Justin N. Stewart
2025
Big Freedia
2003
Emil Wibekin
2002
E. Lynn Harris
2001
r. erica doyle
2000
Reggie Ray -
The Curtis L. Etherly Jr. Ally Award is presented to an individual whose unwavering allyship and steadfast support have significantly advanced the well-being of Black LGBTQ+ communities. Through inclusive policy initiatives, philanthropic leadership, and meaningful partnerships, recipients embody the true spirit of solidarity and shared purpose.
2026
Marlene McNeese
2025
Eva Marcille
2022
Bianca Ward
2021
Brian K. Bond
Channing Wickman
2019
Gail Oliver
Peggielene Bartels “King Peggy”
2018
Curtis L. Etherly Jr. (Posthumously) -
The Eleanor Holmes Norton Award honors steadfast advocacy for justice, equality, and the protection of civil rights for LGBTQ+ communities. Recipients embody courage and conviction, advancing policies and initiatives that safeguard freedoms and promote true inclusion for all.
2026
Texas State Representative Venton Jones
2025
United States Representative Jasmine Crockett
2021
DC Attorney General Karl A. Racine
2018
Congressman John Lewis
Washington DC Councilmember Anita Bonds
2016
Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser
2011
Washington, DC Mayor Vincent C. Gray
2010
Washington, DC City Council
2004
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton -
Presented by the president of the executive board of Black Lesbian & Gay Pride Day, Inc. (now DC Black Pride) to a board member whose dedication and service have advanced the mission of DC Black Pride. Named for Tina Tealsey, an exceptional activist and former BLGPD board member, this award honors those who exemplify integrity, stewardship, and commitment to community.
2004
Eric E. Richardson2003
Clarence Fluker2002
Cheryl Dunn
Toni Collins
2001
Ronnie Foster
2000
Melody Lawson
1999
Cheryl Head
1998
Robert Jones
1996
Tina Teasley -
Celebrates an individual — LGBTQ+ or ally — who has worked tirelessly to uplift Black LGBTQ+ communities and serves as a role model of integrity, leadership, and advocacy. This award highlights visible contributions that inspire others to follow.
2003
Mary J. Blige
2002
Patti LaBelle
2001
Archbishop Carl Beam
2000
Ruth Ellis -
Presented to a corporation that has demonstrated meaningful support for Black LGBTQ+ communities through investment, partnership, and leadership. This award recognizes the role of the private sector in advancing equity and inclusion nationwide.
2003
MAC Cosmetics
