It was glitz, glam, and Black lady greatness at its most interesting because the Nationwide City League hosted its sixth annual Girls in Concord Awards Luncheon on Saturday, considered one of ESSENCE Competition weekend’s most unique and empowering occasions.
Supply: Distinctive Nicole
Held on the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, the crimson carpet affair celebrated 4 phenomenal ladies who’re breaking obstacles and constructing legacies: iconic soul-stirring songstress Patti LaBelle, tv trailblazerMara 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.
Visitors 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 group 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 company, made rounds with heat smiles, and ensured each girl within the room felt celebrated, seen, and showered with love.
The luxe Self Care Lounge was additionally a success, providing magnificence touch-ups and consultations courtesy of Danessa Myricks Magnificence, together with different wellness treats that permit company refresh and reset.
Myricks, who constructed her model with a mission rooted in inclusivity and authenticity, mirrored on the emotional influence of the day.
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“What I do keep 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 stated. “It’s that feeling that I craved for therefore lengthy. That’s the explanation 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.
“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 once 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 through which individuals lack braveness, in a time through which individuals lack authenticity, in a time through which persons are merely simply cowards and don’t need to struggle for what they consider in, it’s wonderful that somebody who merely simply does what God has placed on their life in some way 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 actually honored and grateful. I’m honored to be on this struggle and know that I’m not in it on my own.”
She continued by reflecting on the assist she receives from the neighborhood.
“I’m honored each time I meet considered one of you on the streets, and y’all randomly inform me, regardless that 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 once I inform you that I don’t suppose that I’m in a battle with something lower than evil, I imply that.”
Crockett additionally addressed the continuing assaults on Black ladies in positions of energy.
“If there’s anybody particular group that’s below 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 ought to be taking their jobs. And many people will likely be coming for his or her jobs quickly sufficient.”
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.
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From flower petals to energy strikes, the Girls in Concord luncheon proved as soon as once more that when Black ladies collect, magic and momentum occur.
