The winners of the state’s 2nd annual Black History Month Awards, presented by the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, will be announced tomorrow at a ceremony at MJ Cafe, 6901 W. Brown Deer Rd., from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
In all, three will be honored at the event:
- The Legacy Award recognizes someone who, over many years, has worked tirelessly to make a difference, support Democratic ideals and promote social activism. This award recognizes someone who younger generations look to for significant Democratic leadership. This year’s Legacy nominees are Mikel Holt, president of Malik Communications and associate publisher of the Milwaukee Community Journal, Will Allen, director of Growing Power, Inc., and Attorney James Hall Jr., president of the Milwaukee chapter of the NAACP.
- The Grassroots Organizer Award presented to that social activist who goes above and beyond any expectation of a volunteer. They believe in the Democratic causes they are fighting for and create positive energy for others. Nominees for this award this year include Mandela Barnes, lead organizer for the Milwaukee Inner-city Congregations Allied for Hope, Ronald Lemons, recall volunteer, and Tracey Dent, chief executive officer of Peace for Change Alliance, Inc.
- The Emerging Leader Award recognizes someone who has come of age recently in his or her role as a Democratic leader. They have been elected to lead the people and have represented their voice honorably. This year, the Leader award nominees are County Supervisor Nikiya Harris, Mahlon Mitchell, president of the Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin and County Supervisor Eyon Biddle.
The voting process includes nominations made to the Party that are then presented to the entire state for online voting. In addition to the three awards listed above, other recognitions and awards will be presented at the event.
“With all of the incredible political activism our state has seen recently, this year’s Black History Month Awards are very special,” said Stephanie Findley, Black Caucus Chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin. “It will be a great honor to present this year’s awards and share with the community and entire state the accomplishments of these leaders.”
