It was glitz, glam, and Black lady greatness at its most interesting because the Nationwide City League hosted its sixth annual Ladies in Concord Awards Luncheon on Saturday, July 5, considered one of Essence Competition weekend’s most unique and empowering occasions.
Held on the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, the purple carpet affair celebrated 4 phenomenal ladies who’re breaking boundaries and constructing legacies: iconic soul-stirring songstress Patti LaBelle, tv trailblazer Mara Brock Akil, rising political powerhouse Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), and wonder mogul Danessa Myricks.
Themed Her Energy, Her Prosperity, the luncheon was an inspiring ode to Black ladies who lead, uplift and innovate. From fierce vogue to fearless speeches, the room pulsed with power, class, and unapologetic excellence from the likes of Tisha Campbell, Muni Lengthy, Marlo Hampton, and Stephanie Mills.
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Company had been handled to soulful serenades from Howard Hewett and MAJOR., plus motivational gems from writer and mindset coach Dr. Cheryl P. Williamson, who reminded the gang of their brilliance and boldness.
Including much more attraction to the afternoon was a shock look from the famed Silver Foxes in glossy fits who graciously gifted flowers to visitors, made rounds with heat smiles, and ensured each lady within the room felt celebrated, seen, and showered with love.
The luxe Self Care Lounge was additionally successful, providing magnificence touch-ups and consultations courtesy of Danessa Myricks Magnificence, together with different wellness treats that permit visitors refresh and reset.
Myricks, who constructed her model with a mission rooted in inclusivity and authenticity, mirrored on the emotional impression of the day.
“What I do bear in mind is the sensation strolling into this room, having individuals stroll as much as you and inform you they love you. You matter. You belong,” she mentioned. “It’s that feeling that I craved for therefore lengthy. That’s the rationale why this model exists.”
In the meantime, Rep. Jasmine Crockett delivered one of many afternoon’s strongest and private moments as she accepted her award.
Supply: Distinctive Nicole / Getty
“I’ve to inform you that I’m humbled. I’m humbled anytime somebody says to me that I deserve recognition as a result of after I get up, and I determine that I’m simply gonna go in and be my very Black self at work, I can’t think about that that’s something that’s award-worthy,” she shared.
“However in a time wherein individuals lack braveness, in a time wherein individuals lack authenticity, in a time wherein individuals are merely simply cowards and don’t need to combat for what they imagine in, it’s superb that somebody who merely simply does what God has placed on their life one way or the other is honored with an award. So I’ll inform you that I don’t really feel worthy, however I’ll inform you that I’m really honored and grateful. I’m honored to be on this combat and know that I’m not in it on my own.”
She continued by reflecting on the assist she receives from the group.
“I’m honored each time I meet considered one of you on the streets, and y’all randomly inform me, though we ain’t by no means met, that you just’ve been praying for me. When individuals ask me what it’s that I want on this second, I inform them that, primary, I want prayers. As a result of after I inform you that I don’t assume that I’m in a battle with something lower than evil, I imply that.”
Crockett additionally addressed the continued assaults on Black ladies in positions of energy.
“If there may be anybody particular group that’s beneath assault greater than every other group, it’s Black ladies. And it’s as a result of they’re afraid of us. They’re afraid of our greatness. They’re afraid of our boldness, and albeit, they know that half of them shouldn’t be the place they’re, and that we must be taking their jobs. And many people shall be coming for his or her jobs quickly sufficient.”
Supply: Distinctive Nicole / Getty
She wrapped her remarks with a signature mic-drop second, proudly declaring that she shared “Sensible phrases wittingly warring with weak weenies.”
Hosted by the City League’s personal Rhonda Spears Bell, with remarks from President and CEO Marc H. Morial, the occasion was supported by sponsors Experian, McDonald’s, HCA Healthcare, and GEICO.
From flower petals to energy strikes, the Ladies in Concord luncheon proved as soon as once more that when Black ladies collect, magic and momentum occur.
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