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Black star power was on display in a major way during the inaugural Urban One Honors in Washington, D.C, on Sunday.
The awards ceremony was the first in what was expected to become an annual tradition for the Black-owned media empire founded and still operated by Cathy Hughes, who was also one of the honorees. And rightfully so, as the Urban One Honors were developed “to acknowledge and honor individuals and/or organizations that have made extraordinary strides in the areas of innovative programming, successful business ventures, advanced technology, entertainment, social activism, education and community service,” according to Majic 102.3, one of Hughes’ many radio stations that presented the event.
Comedian DL Hughley hosted the ceremony that honored the following individuals:
June Ambrose, Fashion Icon Award
Brandy, Cathy Hughes Excellence Award
Jermaine Dupri, Living Legend Award
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, Public Servant Award
Tom Joyner, Lifetime Achievement Award
Shaun King, Social Change Agent Award
Dr. Nadia Lopez, Education Maven
Jade Novah, Viral Sensation
Benny Pough, Record Executive of the Year Award
Rotimi, Generation Next Award
Marvin Sapp, Inspirational Impact Award
Teyana Taylor, R&B Impact Award
Doc Walker, Sports Legend Award
Marvin Sapp and K-Ci of Jodeci performed and LA Reid, Da Brat, Bryan Michael Cox, Ray J, Roland Martin and Q Parker were among the presenters.
Other notable names in attendance included but weren’t limited to Traci Braxton, DJ Khaled, Chey Parker, Gia Peppers, Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh, April Ryan, Symone Sanders and Elle Varner.
“Representing excellence in the areas of innovative programming, successful business ventures, advanced technology, entertainment, social activism, education, and community service, through diligence and dedication, this inaugural class of honorees has set the bar high whilst being an exemplary catalyst for change and profound models for success,” TV One said in a press release.
The Urban One Honors were held at The Anthem theater in southwest Washington, but it was no coincidence the nation’s capital was chosen as the location for what was set to become a yearly tradition.
“There is no better place than the DMV, where history is made, to salute the best of the best in media, entertainment, sports, education, community and more,” Jeff Wilson, Senior Regional Vice President, Radio One, said ahead of the event.
We gathered up some of the best #UrbanOneHonors photos and videos that have flooded social media along with other pictures taken at the event. Scroll through to see your favorite stars being honored for their unbridled dedication to their respective crafts.
1. (L-R) Ray J, Cathy Hughes and Brandy
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2. DL Hughley
3. (L-R) DJ Quicksilva, Cathy Hughes, April Ryan, June Ambrose and Michael Eric Dyson
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4. April Ryan
5. Founder of Urban One, Cathy Hughes
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6. Marilyn Mosby, State’s Attorney for Baltimore
7. District of Columbia Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton
8. Singer Elle Varner
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9. Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh
10. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton
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11. June Ambrose
12. Retired NFL Player Fred Smoot
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13. Cathy Hughes and Tom Joyner
14. Gia Peppers, Jade Novah and Elle Varner
15. April Ryan and Jermaine Dupri
16. Singer Marvin Sapp
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17. Jermaine Dupri and Da Brat
18. (L-R) Pamela Simpson, Donnie Simpson, April Ryan and Baltimore mayor Catherine Pugh
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19. Tom Joyner and Brandy
20. Shaun King
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