L.A. Urban League Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Whitney M. Young Jr. Awards
The Los Angeles Urban League (Los Angeles, CA) hosted the 50th Anniversary of its prestigious Whitney M. Young Jr. Awards & Celebration on June 11, honoring five decades of social progress and community impact inspired by the enduring legacy of civil rights leader Whitney M. Young Jr.
Held at the Skirball Cultural Center, the gala was an extraordinary gathering of changemakers, corporate leaders, elected officials, and entertainers who came together to celebrate individuals committed to equity, justice, and economic empowerment.
The evening was highlighted by the presentation of four distinguished honors to leaders whose work continues to shape Los Angeles and beyond.
Jenifer Lewis received the Visionary Award. The beloved actress, bestselling author, and mental health advocate is known as “The Mother of Black Hollywood.” She was honored for her decades of activism, philanthropy, and cultural impact across generations.
Norm Nixon was the John W. Mack Legacy Award recipient. The NBA legend, philanthropist, and co-founder of the Debbie Allen Dance Academy was honored for his commitment to youth empowerment, social justice, and community health. Nixon was joined at the celebration by fellow Lakers greats A.C. Green and Byron Scott, who celebrated his accomplishments and legacy alongside him.
Notable guests included television personality Kiki Shepard, “Black-ish” star Miles Brown, actress Edwina Findley of Netflix’s “The Residence,” William Stanford Davis of ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” comedian Luenell, and actress Vanessa Bell Calloway.
The entertainment featured performances by gospel legend BeBe Winans, R&B star October London, and hip hop pioneer Doug E. Fresh.
Cynthia Mitchell-Heard, LAUL President and CEO — and the first woman to lead the organization in over a century — delivered a powerful keynote, emphasizing, “This celebration is about more than legacy — it’s about the path forward. Tonight, we honor those who are building a more just and equitable Los Angeles every single day. Whitney M. Young Jr.’s work is not finished, and neither is ours.”
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