The New York Urban League (NYUL), one of NYC’s oldest civil rights organizations and a leading affiliate of the National Urban League, hosted its 58th Annual Frederick Douglass Awards Dinner at the historic Ziegfeld Ballroom on Thursday, June 6th.
This annual gala not only served as a significant event but also demonstrated the power of community support, raising funds for new and expanded programs and services. NYUL’s mission to assist underserved communities with better access to jobs, education, and healthcare was furthered through direct services, advocacy, referrals, community capacity building, information dissemination, and technical assistance.
The event, hosted by GMA3’s DeMarco Morgan, featured co-chairs Meagan Good, Tonya Lewis Lee, and Bethann Hardison. Good, known for her work in Amazon’s series “Harlem” and the upcoming thriller “Divorce in the Black,” was celebrated for her multifaceted contributions. Lee, an award-winning filmmaker and advocate for women’s health, highlighted her documentary “Aftershock” on the US maternal health crisis. Hardison, a pioneering fashion model and activist, rounded out the trio. Each co-chair was recognized for their outstanding contributions and dedication to NYUL’s mission, significantly impacting their communities.
This year’s theme, “Fight Today. Change Tomorrow: Voting & Civic Engagement,” emphasized promoting voting rights, engaging key stakeholders, and collaborating with local officials to ensure equal access to civic participation for all New Yorkers.
Honorees included George Gresham, President of 1199SEIU; Aurora James, Founder of the Fifteen Percent Pledge; Camille Joseph-Goldman, Group Vice President of Government Affairs at Charter Communications; and Renee McClure, Director of DNY Customer Account Management at National Grid. Each honoree was celebrated for their unwavering commitment to equality and support for underserved and working-class communities. Below is additional information on the accomplishments of each honoree:
Aurora James, renowned for her groundbreaking organization 15% Pledge and her leadership in fashion and activism, received the Frederick Douglass Medallion. Her innovative endeavors and commitment to fostering economic equity have reshaped the fashion industry’s landscape and uplifted marginalized voices.
George Gresham, the President of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, was also recognized with the Frederick Douglass Medallion for his tireless efforts to champion workers’ rights and improve healthcare accessibility, making a significant difference in communities across New York City and beyond.
Renee McClure, an esteemed advocate for social justice and racial equity, was likewise bestowed with the Frederick Douglass Medallion. Her tireless efforts to address systemic injustices and amplify marginalized voices have been instrumental in advancing the cause of equality.
Camille Joseph-Goldman, a trailblazer in education and community development, was presented with the Ann S. Kheel Award. Her advocacy for educational equity and empowerment has transformed countless lives, embodying the spirit of Frederick Douglass’s commitment to education as a tool for liberation.