The Pink Awards celebrates efforts to fight breast cancer among Black women

The highly anticipated sixth Annual Pink Awards took center stage on October 12, 2024 on the TheaterPlex at The House of Hope Atlanta, serving as a highlight of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Hosted by Carl Payne and Kenny Burns, the star-studded event brought together leaders within the fight against breast cancer, with a special concentrate on advocating for Black women’s health.

Grammy Award-winning artist Rudy Currence set the soulful tone with a robust opening performance, followed by a dance tribute from the Jazze Pha dancers, and honored the legendary producer with the celebrated Vanguard Award. Crowd-pleasing performances by Vott, Kaelyn Kastle, B. Chase & Shabach, Y’anna Crawley, Monica Lisa Stevenson and Zebulon Ellis added to the event.

The Pink Awards honored a variety of groundbreaking achievements within the fields of health, activism and entertainment. Queen Afua, referred to as “The Visionary,” has been recognized for her contributions to the holistic health of the black community. Video tributes from Erykah Badu and Doug E. Fresh added heartfelt support to her appreciation.

Dr. Terrence Lester was awarded the title of “Samaritan” and praised for his leadership in helping people experiencing homelessness. Devon Franklin received the Game Changer award for his influential work in Hollywood. Meanwhile, LaSonjia “LJ” Jack, recognized as “The Warrior,” was honored for her perseverance as owner of the Allen Americans hockey team. Bishop William Murphy III, honored as “The Trailblazer,” has been recognized for his Grammy-nominated profession and ministry within the gospel field.

Two breast cancer survivors, Ricki Fairley and Roxanne McIver, have been within the highlight for his or her continued support, highlighting the health care disparities that Black women face. Their emotional stories were a robust reminder of the necessity for change in the way in which breast cancer care is provided to women of color.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award to Pink Awards founder April Love, who has been battling breast cancer for 13 years. Love’s commitment to raising awareness of breast cancer has empowered countless women, and her creation of the Pink Awards has develop into a beacon of hope.

With the support of sponsors including Leo Marshall Creative, IBest Wines, Luc Belaire Champagne, the Pink Awards Foundation continues its mission of providing resources and support to breast cancer survivors.

More information will be found on the web site www.thepinkawards.com.