As a burgeoning writer, I was deeply honored to attend the 2024 Native Son Awards, an event that celebrates the outstanding achievements of Black gay and queer men during Pride Month.
Hosted at the iconic IAC Building in NYC and sponsored by Cadillac and Gilead Sciences, this year’s awards marked the 55th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising—a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history.
The evening, hosted by Don Lemon, was a gathering of luminaries from various fields, including stylist Law Roach, choreographer Bill T. Jones, actor Jeremy Pope, PR maven Chris Chambers, author Keith Boykin, and activist Gabriel Maldonado. Lemon emphasized the importance of advocacy and community amidst ongoing challenges, including anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.
He discussed the pressing issue of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, particularly targeting transgender and non-binary individuals. He highlighted Project 2025, a conservative initiative aimed at reshaping the federal government and rolling back various civil rights advancements, especially those affecting the LGBTQ+ community. Key concerns include the rollback of anti-discrimination protections in healthcare, which could reduce access to comprehensive healthcare services, including gender-affirming care and reproductive rights. Lemon reminded us of the importance of getting to the polls in November to use our vote.
The first honoree of the evening, Gabriel Maldonado, the Founder and CEO of TruEvolution, delivered a soul-inspiring speech, saying, “There are angels like me all around me to remind me that I’m moving in my calling. That’s what it means to be in a tribe. You know when your brother calls your name.” Raised in Compton, Maldonado’s life is now dedicated to advancing the quality of life and human dignity for people of color in the LGBTQ+ community.
Another highlight was Jeremy Pope, who, authentic and visibly moved, expressed gratitude for feeling seen and heard. He reflected on his journey as a performer and expressed his gratefulness for the support of the Native Son community.
I was inspired by a powerful quote from honoree Keith Boykin: “Now let us all dare to be powerful”—a phrase that sent chills and resonated with a soulful intellect throughout the event, encapsulating the spirit of empowerment and resilience. The awards also recognized the style architect Law Roach’s influence in fashion and Bill T. Jones’s legendary contributions to dance and art. Honoree Chris Chambers, principal of The Chamber Group, a New York-based boutique public relations firm, was also celebrated. His mantra is to constantly push himself and his team into new ventures beyond their music core, emphasizing growth and innovation.
The Native Son Awards continue to uplift and amplify the voices of Black gay and queer men, celebrating their achievements and fostering community strength. For more information on Native Son and its initiatives, visit www.Nativeson.us. As a writer, I left this event embracing the significance of being a Black voice in media, grateful for the opportunity to witness and receive the invaluable lessons from those who paved the way. The presence of “We Are One” by Frank Beverly and Maze echoed in my spirit, resonating with these mavericks, innovators, and geniuses in attendance. We are native sons.
Other amazing guests in attendance, who are also allies, friends, peers, and supporters of Native Son and the LGBTQIA+ community, included Yvetter Noel-Schure, Jemel Simone, Obbio Jones, Joan Smalls, Terrell Jones, Jon Pierre, Solomon Dumas, Lena Waithe, Ty Tyrone, Dustin, Ray Warren, Sir Robert Hartwell, and Gordon Chambers.
Photo Credit: DANIEL J. VASQUEZ PRODUCTIONS