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2nd Annual Black Celebration Awards Recap


On Monday, September 21st, BLACK STREET had their 2nd Annual "Black Celebration" Awards ceremony at the Alvin Ailey Studios in New York City. Hosted by MTV's Man & Wife Co-Host & Fashionista, Shanda Freeman accompanied by Gwen Devoe, the founder of Full Figured Fashion Weekend. Notables from BET, CNN, CBS, VH1, United Nations plus many more came out to support the inspiring event partnered with the Do Right Do Good scholarship fund.  "Black Celebration" awarded 22 individuals who have exemplified greatness through charity and service to the Black community. Honors were given out to 9x's Grammy Award Winning Producer- Bryan-Michael Cox, Image Activist & BET Editorial Brand Manager- Michaela Angela Davis, and Russell Simmons Political Director & GlobalGrind.com's Co-President- Michael Skolnik.

Black Street is a website that focuses on showcasing greatness in the Black community. By conducting the "Black Celebration," they provide approximating businesses, organization, and individuals their deserved recognition. The goal is to encourage individuals within the Black community to be more active in their community, thoughtful about their approach and to have pride in our successes. Their goal is to also give recognition to the hard working men and women who have undoubtedly and selfishly catered to empowering and uplifting their community.

BLACK STREET's CEO & Founder, Judith Jacques stated, "BLACK STREET caters to both the elite and the unknown. That teacher who reaches into her finances to cater to her students needs and works long hours with little to no pay, the DJ who creates an after school DJ tutorial for at-risk youth, the nurse who works tirelessly 1-hour shifts- these individuals deserve to be recognized. I saw a need in our community and instead of sitting idly and watching I decided to do something. I am passionate about what I do. I live to showcase the greatness within the Black community. If you [think] there is a missing link, something is missing, tell me and we'll work on it together."

Guests are escorted to a beautiful studio space with glass walls with the Boys & Girls Choir of Harlem Alumni Ensemble kicking off the festivities performing the "Black National Anthem." So begins the uplifting and powerful ceremony during which 50 of the evening's most elite and powerful names are seated at tables to enjoy a catered 3-Course Dinner.  Preceding the outstanding and breathtaking performance, three award recipients were announced. Bryan-Michael Cox was awarded for his "Musical Genius." Michaela Angela Davis was awarded with the "Empowerment" honor, which was presented by Real Estate Guru and Style Network's Tiana Von Johnson. Finally, last year's Trailblazer Honoree as well as Do Right Do Good Founder presented Michael Skolnik with the "Do Right Do Good" honor. As the night continued on, the audience was delighted by additional performances from the Boys & Girls Choir of Harlem Alumni Ensemble, Gotham Citi, and Gregory Machado. Nineteen other individuals received awards that have demonstrated outstanding deeds within their respective field.

Judith Jacques concluded the evening sharing her undeniable passion and drive to cater to her community, before thanking everyone who contributed to the success of their second year.
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