Truth Awards Weekend Celebrates Black LGBTQ+ Excellence and Cultural Impact
ulture, community, and purpose took center stage as Better Brothers Los Angeles, in partnership with Sheryl Lee Ralph’s DIVA Foundation, hosted the 12th Annual Truth Awards Weekend — a powerful, multi-day celebration honoring Black LGBTQ+ excellence.
The weekend culminated in a sold-out gala at The Beverly Hilton, where industry leaders, creatives, and changemakers gathered for a night that was as impactful as it was celebratory. Hosted by Vivica A. Fox, the ceremony spotlighted trailblazers across entertainment, media, and advocacy — all while reinforcing a deeper commitment to visibility, empowerment, and community.
But the Truth Awards is more than a moment. It’s a movement.
A Weekend That Started With Conversation
The experience began with an intimate Dinner & Conversation in downtown Los Angeles, bringing together voices from media, public health, and advocacy. The gathering created space for real dialogue around representation, health equity, and the lived experiences of Black LGBTQ+ individuals.
From there, the energy shifted to the Passing the Torch Awards, honoring the next generation of creatives and innovators shaping culture. Hosted by Kalen Allen and Shar Jossell, the evening celebrated rising voices like Dewayne Perkins, Jordan E. Cooper, and WNBA champion Sydney Colson — all redefining what influence and impact look like.
The Gala That Brought It All Together
The weekend’s defining moment came during the 12th Annual Truth Awards Gala, which welcomed more than 600 attendees for a night of recognition, reflection, and celebration.
A standout performance from Lalah Hathaway delivered one of the evening’s most emotional moments, honoring legacy through music and reminding the audience of the power of storytelling.
This year’s honorees represented excellence across industries:
- Don Lemon (Lifetime Achievement Award)
- Jenifer Lewis (Ally Award)
- Carlos King (Media & Arts Award)
- Flame Monroe (Entertainer Award)
- Durand Bernarr (Music & Arts Award)
- Nneka Onuorah (Breakout Star Award)
- Dr. Keith Green (Bayard Rustin Advocacy Award)
Each name reflected a different journey — but the same mission: pushing culture forward while remaining rooted in truth.
Investing in the Next Generation
One of the most impactful moments of the evening came with the announcement of an anonymous donation exceeding $100,000, directly supporting Better Brothers Los Angeles’ scholarship initiative.
More than a financial contribution, it was a statement — a commitment to ensuring that the next generation of Black LGBTQ+ leaders has access, opportunity, and support.
Because legacy isn’t just celebrated — it’s built.
Closing With Purpose
The weekend concluded with a Community Gospel Brunch, bringing attendees together in a space of reflection, faith, and connection.
It was a reminder that beyond the awards, the red carpets, and the performances, the Truth Awards is rooted in something deeper: community, healing, and collective progress.
The Bigger Impact
With its upcoming telecast debut on KTLA+, the Truth Awards will extend its reach, allowing even more audiences to experience a celebration that continues to reshape narratives and amplify voices that deserve to be seen and heard.
At its core, the Truth Awards Weekend is about honoring truth in all its forms — identity, storytelling, and lived experience.
And in doing so, it continues to redefine what cultural impact looks like.
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