LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass and the City of Los Angeles are gearing up for a momentous celebration of African American Heritage Month. The Our Authors Study Club, Inc., is proud to present the awards ceremony on Friday, February 2nd at 11:00 am on the front lawn of LA City Hall.
This highly anticipated event will honor remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions in media, entertainment, arts, academia, business, medicine, government, and the nonprofit sector.
Hosted by Ashley McKay from ABC 7 Eyewitness News, this year’s African American Heritage Month celebration promises to be a memorable occasion filled with joy and appreciation for the rich African American heritage. After a challenging year marked by virtual events due to the pandemic restrictions, it brings great excitement that this celebration has returned to its in-person format.
Among those slated for recognition are prominent figures such as Kim Coles—an accomplished actress known for her comedic prowess—and Freda Payne—a renowned vocalist and author whose talent has captivated audiences worldwide. Additionally honoring Mamie Hansberry—an esteemed artist whose work speaks volumes—this event is set to leave an indelible mark on attendees’ hearts.
Dr. Elaine Batchlor—one of four distinguished individuals being inducted into the Hall of Fame—will represent extraordinary achievements within the field of health as CEO of Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital. Driven by compassion and unwavering dedication towards providing equitable healthcare access for all communities served by her hospital system.
Another illustrious individual set to join them is Dr. Harry Elam—the esteemed President of Occidental College—who has been recognized nationally for his impactful work within higher education circles. His visionary leadership style focuses on inclusivity and diversity initiatives across campuses nationwide.
Charmaine Jefferson—a trailblazer serving as Chair of the Board of Trustees at California Institute of Arts—exemplifies excellence within academia through her relentless pursuit of fostering creative expression among students from diverse backgrounds.
This year’s ceremony will also include the induction of an additional individual whose accomplishments are set to inspire others and contribute to the rich tapestry of African American heritage in America.
Dr. Mike Davis, Board of Public Works Commissioner for the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, expressed his enthusiasm for this momentous occasion.
“The celebration of African American Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize and honor individuals who have made significant contributions to our society across various sectors. It is events like these that highlight the achievements and resilience within our community,” Davis said.
Other City of Los Angeles African American Heritage Month activities:
African American Heritage Month Round Table Discussion
“African Americans and the Arts”
Thursday, February 1st, 2024 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Black History Month Worship Service
Sunday, February 18th, 2024 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
2270 Harvard Boulevard, Los Angeles, California. Â
An Evening With African American Authors
February 20, 2024, 6:00 pm
Board of Public Works Board Room
200 N Spring St.
Build with Construction Matchmaking
Construction and Transportation Networking Expo
“Keeping the City Moving”
February 27, 2024, 3:00 – 7:00 pm
EXPO Center. For more information, visit accessingla.org.