On May 22, 2024, the Gordon Parks Foundation hosted its highly anticipated annual awards dinner at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City. The event was a celebration of the arts and social justice, honoring influential figures such as Alicia Keys and Kasseem Dean, Colin Kaepernick, Mickalene Thomas, and Myrlie Evers-Williams. Additionally, a special tribute was paid to Richard Roundtree, particularly for his role in Gordon Parks’ iconic film, Shaft.
The evening began with a cocktail hour, followed by an inspirational performance by Anthony Morgan’s Inspirational Choir of Harlem. Peter W. Kunhardt, Jr., the Foundation’s Executive Director, opened the night by reflecting on his grandfather’s co-founding of the foundation with Gordon Parks in 2006. He emphasized the importance of continuing Parks’ legacy of using art as a powerful tool for social change.
Perhaps the most moving moment came when Tim Reid and Sherry Bronfman honored the late Richard Roundtree. Roundtree’s daughter, Kelli, accepted the award from Leslie Parks Bailey, Gordon Parks’ daughter. Gayle King presented an award to civil rights activist Myrlie Evers-Williams, whose daughter, Reena Denise Evers-Everette, accepted on her behalf. Evers-Williams expressed her deep gratitude through a heartfelt video message.
Another highlight of the evening was a surprise performance by Patti Smith, who delivered a stunning rendition of “Peaceable Kingdom” with her bandmate Tony Shanahan. This performance was followed by a live auction led by Hugh Hildesley, where a single photograph by Gordon Parks sold for over $200,000, contributing to a record-breaking $2.3 million raised for the foundation’s initiatives.
Devin Allen, a former Gordon Parks Foundation Fellowship recipient, introduced the 2024 art fellows, which included Howard University professor Larry W. Cook, Chicago-based activist Tonika Lewis Johnson, and author D. Watkins. Amy Sherald presented the Patrons of the Arts Award to Alicia Keys and Kasseem Dean, who have been ardent supporters of the foundation and own the largest private collection of Parks’ photographs. The couple spoke passionately about the importance of continuing Parks’ fight for social justice through the arts.
Carrie Mae Weems honored mixed-media artist Mickalene Thomas, who shared an emotional speech about her journey as an artist and the impact of Gordon Parks on her work. Spike Lee added a touch of humor to the evening while honoring athlete and activist Colin Kaepernick, who expressed his gratitude for the support of the community.
The gala concluded with DJ D-Nice energizing the crowd with a diverse mix of music, making it a memorable night for all attendees. Notable guests included Usher, Ben Stiller, Lena Waithe, Chelsea Clinton, and Clive Davis, among others.
For those unable to attend, the foundation, in partnership with Steidl, released an expanded edition of the 1971 book Gordon Parks: Born Black, offering deeper insights into Parks’ work and vision. This event and the ongoing efforts of the Gordon Parks Foundation continue to honor the legacy of a man whose art has profoundly influenced the fight for a better and more just world.
For more information about the Gordon Parks Foundation, the partnership with Steidl, and the awards ceremony, visit their website, or follow the Gordon Parks Foundation on Instagram.
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