The Center for Black Equity Announces Inaugural BE. Gala Honoring Black LGBTQ+ Leaders & Allies
- cedrichalljr
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A groundbreaking tradition is coming to Washington, D.C. Gayes. On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the Center for Black Equity will host its inaugural BE. Gala at the National Press Club.
The nonprofit, known for improving health and wellness opportunities for Black LGBTQ+ communities and as the lead organizer of DC Black Pride, is bringing together activists, artists and allies. Guests can look forward to an elegant evening of live performances, powerful storytelling, and a celebration honoring the resilience and creativity of Black LGBTQ+ communities nationwide.
Tracing its roots to early Black Pride events that carved out spaces for visibility and connection at a time when few existed, the BE. Gala arrives at a moment when LGBTQ+ rights and representation are increasingly becoming challenged, offering a counterpoint of unapologetic joy and resilience.
Guided by the theme, “New Renaissance,” the evening will be led by a host committee whose work reflects CBE’s mission to uplift equality and liberation. Among them are Malachi Hammonds, Senior Sales Technology Manager at Bloomberg Industry Group; Carmen J. Neely, Co-Founder, President and CEO of Harlem Pride; and Letoi Williams, Deputy Director of the Human Rights Campaign.
Since the 1990s, CBE has honored distinguished LGBTQ+ individuals and those who champion the Black LGBTQ+ community. At this inaugural gala, guests will witness trailblazers recognized for their contributions to public health, spirituality, art and community leadership. The red carpet will come alive with creators and cultural leaders whose work continues to shape the Black queer experience, from screenwriters to music icons.
Tracey Africa Norman, the first trans woman to appear on a Clairol “Born Beautiful” box will receive the Welmore Cook Advocacy & Service Award.
The late A. Cornelius Baker will be posthumously honored with the Ernest Hopkins Public Health Leadership Award for his impact on HIV/AIDS policy.
Jack Mizrahi, executive producer of HBO Max’s Legendary and FX’s Pose, will receive the Unsung Hero Award for his decades work preserving ballroom culture and bringing it to the spotlight.
Patrik-Ian Polk, director of the groundbreaking series Noah’s Arc, will receive the Alan Sharpe Artistic Excellence Award for leading Black queer voices to the big screen.
Big Freedia, the Queen of Bounce, will receive the National Black Pride Leadership Award for influencing music and advocating for LGBTQ+ visibility.
Actress, model, and former Real Housewives of Atlanta star, Eva Marcille, will take home the Ally Award for her advocacy in health and allyship.
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett will be awarded the Eleanor Holmes Norton Civil Rights & Justice Award for her fearless work on civil rights and LGBTQ+ protections.
Additional honorees include trans activist Hope Giselle-Godsey, who will receive the Center for Black Equity Leadership Award for advancing trans visibility.
Bishop O.C. Allen will receive the Bishop Kwabena Rainey Cheeks Spirtiual & Community Leadership Award for his faith-based leadership and long term activism for the LGBTQ+ community.
MOBI (Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative), an innovative platform for queer men of color centered on wellness and connection will receive the Small Business Award.
“The gala is not just a moment of recognition; it fuels the work we do year-round to advance equity for Black LGBTQ+ people worldwide,” said Kenya Hutton, President & CEO of the Center for Black Equity.
“Every ticket, every table, every act of support helps us expand our impact and strengthen our movement.”
Each seat at the gala helps fuel CBE’s ongoing programs in health equity and social justice. Guests can also take part in a silent auction offering luxe prizes, from vacations with domestic and international airfare to destinations like New Orleans, Europe, and Mexico; to a four-course dinner for 10, or even a safari tour.
Tickets are selling quickly, and those interested are encouraged to secure theirs soon. More than an event, the BE. Gala offers a chance to be a part of a moment that leaves a lasting mark on the community, creating safe spaces where Black LGBTQ+ lives and leadership are honored and celebrated.
For more information, sponsorship opportunities, and tickets to the inaugural BE. Gala for Black Equity, visit: centerforblackequity.org/gala.
