Recap: 56th Annual Chicago Urban League Golden Fellowship Dinner

I’m still thinking about the awesome time I had this past weekend at the 56^th Annual Chicago Urban League Golden Fellowship Dinner! Everyone was dressed to the nines to celebrate this year’s theme, Beyond 100: Together we Matter. $2 Million dollars was raised that night to support critical funds. We honored two esteemed men always fighting for equality and justice. James D. Montgomery, Sr., noted civil rights attorney and community activist, was awarded with the coveted “Bill” Berry Civil Rights award. Senator Emil Jones Jr. was awarded with the Lester H. McKeever, Jr. Individual Service Award. The night ended with the crowd getting treated to a performance by R&B Singer, Producer, and Songwriter Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds. What more could you ask for!! Check out my pics below of the evening and keep scrolling to read the full post press release recap. Make sure you check out this event next year. Such a great time to support such a great organization!

Chicago Urban League’s Golden Fellowship Dinner Shines Light on Race and Equity;
Raises $2 Million in Funds for Critical Programs

Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds Puts ‘Whip Appeal’ on Adoring Fans

CHICAGO, Nov. 5, 2017 – On Saturday night, nearly 1,600 supporters gathered at the Chicago Urban League’s 56^th Annual Golden Fellowship Dinner to usher in the organization’s 101st year of service to Chicago’s African-American community. Hosted by comedian Damon Williams, the event raised $2 million and culminated with an unforgettable performance by Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds.

Emphasizing the theme “Beyond 100: Together We Matter,” Chicago Urban League President and CEO Shari Runner reminded the crowd of business leaders, clergy, human rights advocates, philanthropists and elected officials to play an active role in preventing social injustices from “occurring – and reoccurring — with frightening frequency.”

“Each of us in this room can be a leader,” said Runner. “You don’t have to be President, or Governor, or Mayor, or CEO to do what’s right and improve lives in our city. You just need to remain committed and focused. We just need to stay woke.”

The night was filled with historic moments including the presentation of the Edwin C. “Bill” Berry Civil Rights Award to James D. Montgomery, Sr., noted civil rights attorney and community activist. The Lester H. McKeever, Jr. Individual Service Award was presented to retired State Senator Emil Jones, Jr., progressive legislator, and long-time proponent of social justice and fair funding of public education.

Senator Emil Jones Jr.

James Montgomery

As chronicled in videos featuring impacted clients, funds raised from the dinner will support the Chicago Urban League’s programs, which serve more than 15,000 Chicago residents annually, including the Youth Development Center, Workforce Development, Housing and Financial Empowerment, Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the IMPACT Leadership Development.

This year’s Dinner Co-Chairs were James P. Kolar, Central Market Managing Partner, PwC and Stephen W. Beard, General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer, Heidrick & Struggles, Inc.

“The League’s outspokenness and advocacy over the years has drawn praise and applause from some but has also drawn the ire of others,” said Runner. “My team and I continue the League’s legacy. We remain driven by our mission to pursue socioeconomic justice for those who do not have it, and we are willing to put everything we have into the effort.” 

For more information about the Chicago Urban League centennial, visit CUL100.org. For general information, go to www.TheChicagoUrbanLeague.org.  

About the Chicago Urban League

Established in 1916, the Chicago Urban League works for economic, educational and social progress for African Americans and promotes strong sustainable communities through advocacy, collaboration and innovation. For more information, click HERE. Find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.    

Special Thanks to the following for helping me get GALA ready!

The Frock Shop Dress Rental – www.frockshopchicago.com 2150 S. Canalport Ave, Chicago, IL 60654 773-243-9433 Rental: Mignon (nothing but net gown)

HAIR: CHI Hair – 674 N Dearborn, Chicago, IL 60654 – Chihairimports.com – 312.642.0095 Stylist: China MAKEUP: Sephora – Water Tower Place – Make up Artist: Gabriella – Sephora.com to schedule appointment

Copyright secured by Digiprove © 2017